In a resounding display of skill and dominance, Sri Lanka’s rugby team clinched a commanding 45-10 victory over arch-rivals India, propelling themselves into the final showdown against Kazakhstan at the Asian Division I Rugby Tournament. The pulsating match unfolded at Colombo’s Racecourse Stadium, where Sri Lanka showcased their prowess to the delight of fervent supporters.
From the outset, the encounter promised intensity and fervor, with both teams eyeing the coveted final spot. Despite the challenging conditions characterized by a drenched field and slippery ball, Sri Lanka demonstrated exceptional resilience and adaptability, seizing control of the game early on.
India initially surged ahead with a penalty kick courtesy of Deepak Kumara Punia in the third minute, momentarily setting the tone. However, Sri Lanka swiftly retaliated, showcasing their offensive prowess with Pulasthi Dassanayake notching a crucial try in the 15th minute, swiftly followed by another impressive try from Thenuka Nanayakkara just four minutes later.
Undeterred by the adverse weather conditions, Sri Lanka continued to dictate proceedings, with Sudaraka Dikkumbura extending their lead with a well-executed try in the 33rd minute, heading into halftime with a commanding 21-3 advantage. The momentum remained firmly in Sri Lanka’s favor, compounded by a yellow card for India’s Ajith Kumara, further tilting the scales in the home team’s favor.
The second half witnessed a relentless onslaught from Sri Lanka, as they maintained their offensive onslaught. Dassanayake showcased his scoring prowess once again with a second try in the 45th minute, followed closely by Nanayakkara’s brace in the 56th minute. Despite a spirited fightback from India, highlighted by their first try in the 63rd minute, Sri Lanka’s dominance remained unassailable.
With the final whistle looming, Sri Lanka showcased their depth and determination, with Tharinda Ratwatte and Hirusha Nethmina adding to the tally with a try each, solidifying their emphatic victory at 45-10. Nethmina’s conversion of his own try provided the perfect exclamation mark to a stellar performance by the Sri Lankan side.
The match was officiated by a distinguished panel led by Just Wang (SRU), assisted by JP Clements (UAERF) and Seo Insoo (KRU), ensuring fair play and adherence to the highest standards of the game. Looking ahead, Sri Lanka is poised for an electrifying showdown against Kazakhstan in the final on May 4 at 7PM, while India and Qatar will lock horns in the third-place playoff earlier in the day at 4PM at the Racecourse Stadium.
Sri Lanka’s commanding victory not only underscores their dominance on the regional rugby stage but also sets the stage for an enthralling final clash as they strive to etch their name in the annals of Asian rugby glory.
