Sri Lions at Dubai 7s 2024 with star-studded squad

Wednesday, 20 November 2024 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

Sri Lions, a rugby powerhouse poised to make their Division ‘A’ debut in Sri Lanka, are set to compete in the prestigious Dubai 7s International Open Men’s 2024 tournament from 29 November to 1 December.

Coming off a victorious Plate Championship win in the same tournament last year, the team has assembled a superb line-up to take on the global stage once again.

Sri Lions have combined the best of Sri Lankan schoolboy rugby talent with seasoned international stars to form a formidable team for this year’s tournament. Among their key players is Raveen Fernando, a flanker who was a member of the victorious St. Peter’s College League Championship-winning team. Joining him is Thikshan Eshan, known for his versatility on the field, and Dinuk Amerasinghe, a former standout three-quarter from St. Anthony’s College, Katugastota, who also represented CR & FC with distinction. Dulaj Navodya, a former Captain of the St. Peter’s College rugby team, adds further strength to the squad, while Mohamed Nizran rounds out the group of exceptional Sri Lankan talents.

Adding international firepower to the team are renowned players from Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. Simione F. Moala, a three-time national champion and former Tonga 7s Captain, brings his experience of over 200 games at the highest levels of the sport. The Fijian contingent includes Rauto Vakadranu, Tira Welagi Patterson, Manueli Maisamoa, and Jope Tikoilepanoni, all of whom have represented the Fiji national squad and bring the electrifying pace and flair that Fijian rugby is famous for. From South Africa, Jean van Schalkwyk, who featured in the 2023 national Sevens squad, will bolster the team’s strategic depth. Additionally, Charles Philip Taylor, a former Australian Rugby 7s player (2016–2018) and current Premiership Rugby stalwart with the Dubai Tigers, adds versatility and experience to the line-up.

Sri Lions Founder and President Dr. Kelum Sujith Perera said: “This year’s Dubai 7s marks an exciting new chapter for the Sri Lions. Last year, we proved that Sri Lankans can compete and succeed on the global stage. With the exceptional team we have assembled this year, I have every confidence that we will surpass expectations again,” he said.

Dr. Perera, speaking further, said: “This tournament is about more than just winning—it is about showcasing Sri Lankan talent and inspiring pride in our nation. Our players, whether homegrown or international stars, are ambassadors of Sri Lanka’s rugby potential. It is also a step towards creating a legacy for Sri Lankan rugby, both here in the UAE and back home.”

He concluded, saying: “We carry the hopes of Sri Lankans everywhere, and their support drives us forward. I invite every Sri Lankan in the UAE and beyond to join us in this journey, cheering for the Sri Lions as we strive to raise our flag higher than ever before.”