Reviewed By Sathira Marahela (Web Content Team)
6 September 2025 will be remembered as a day when the Trinity Lions showed their pride and resilience on the rugby field. At the Royal Complex, the team from Kandy defeated Royal College 8–3 in the second leg of the 79th Bradby Shield. However, the aggregate score of 18–13 meant that Royal reclaimed the Shield.
First Half
Trinity struck early with determination. After sustained pressure, Manusha Silva’s powerful run broke through the defence, setting up Achintha Jayasena to cross for the opening try. Although the conversion went wide, Trinity had made their intent clear. Royal responded with penalty opportunities, but these were missed under the pressure of Trinity’s defence.
Half-time score: Royal 0 – 5 Trinity (Aggregate: Royal 15 – Trinity 10)
Second Half
The Lions carried their momentum into the second half. Playmaker Shan Althaf calmly added a penalty to extend the lead, much to the delight of the Trinity supporters. Royal replied with a penalty of their own, but the Trinity defence stood firm, repelling every attack until the final whistle. Though the Shield stayed in Colombo, Trinity finished the game on top.
Full-time score: Royal 3 – 8 Trinity (Aggregate: Royal 18 – Trinity 13)
More Than a Match
Although Trinity did not reclaim the Shield, their performance in Colombo reflected the spirit of the Red, Gold and Blue. The team’s courage and discipline signal their return as strong contenders in schools’ rugby.
This performance stands as a tribute to the tireless efforts of the coaching staff, the commitment of the players, the guidance of the faculty advisors and MICs, and the unwavering support of the Trinity community, past and present.
Full Squad:
Usman Shafraz (Captain), Shan Althaf (Vice Captain), Nisith Kumarasinghe (Vice Captain), Rithika Weragama, Sadeesha Weerawamsa, Dishal Thomas, Nisala Perera, Mohammed Waqidh Ali, Seth Wickramanayake, Ishara Premachandra, Tevin Udukumbura, Achintha Jayasena, Ravindu Jayasena, Mukshidh Siyam, Ridma Nimneth, Ammaar Manzil, Manusha Silva, Akash Fernando, Ramindu Wanasinghe, Dimath Ambepitiya, Kevin Weerakoon, Evin Jayasena, Abdul Malik, Maleesha Jayaneth, Onija Kodithuwakku, Bilal Nazeer, Amhar Faizal, Heshan Kumarawansa, Naheel Jayah, Mindinu Dissanayake, Hamza Abdeen, Minula Yaddehige, Vihanga Indhusara, Mohamed Asri, Deemal Thilakarathne, Ravishka Dissanayake, Shrayan Satheeshkumar, Murad Raizan, Udan Wijekoon, Avishka Jayasekara.
