Sarani Nayanathara to lead Sri Lanka women’s outfit as both teams prepare for continental challenge in Bhubaneswar
Sri Lanka will field both boys’ and girls’ teams at the Asia Rugby Emirates Under-20 Sevens Championship 2026, which will be held at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, India, on November 14 and 15.
While the boys will be looking to improve on their runners-up finish behind Hong Kong China last year, the girls’ team will be seeking valuable international exposure as Sri Lanka continues to strengthen its women’s rugby development programme.
Sarani Nayanathara of Kuliyapitiya Central College has been appointed captain of the girls’ team, with Chamodhi Sathsarani named vice-captain. Saliya Kumara will guide the young outfit as head coach.
The 12-member squad was selected following trials conducted on November 2 at the CR and FC grounds in Colombo.
The girls’ competition will feature seven teams, including hosts India, Hong Kong China, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Chinese Taipei.
Sri Lanka will face a challenging task against established Asian rugby nations. However, the tournament will provide an important opportunity for the young players to gain international experience, develop their skills and build confidence at the continental level.
The boys’ team, meanwhile, will be led by Naham Hemachandra, with Yuwan Pathirana as vice-captain and Asela Deshapriya as head coach.
Both teams will be keen to make their presence felt in India, with the championship providing an important platform for the next generation of Sri Lankan rugby players.
Sri Lanka squad: Naham Hemachandra (Captain), Malshan Dewmin, Udan Bulathsinhalage, Yuwan Pathirana (Vice-Captain), Dilruwan Perera, Nimantha Sandeepa, Ahad Sally, Tatheera Dahamdiv, Minula Yaddehige, Udan Wijekoon, Mohamed Fawaz and Rivin Bawdaween.
Head Coach: Asela Deshapriya.
Sri Lanka Under-20 Girls’ Squad
– Sarani Nayanathara (Captain), Chamodhi Sathsarani (Vice-Captain).- W.A.V. Savisadu,- Pawani Sathsarani,- Fathima Afra,- Azahiya Shiyona,- Navodya Diwyanjali.- W.I.H. Harindya
– Minoli Jude,- Yethmini Bimassa,- Vibhushi Ranruwani,- Pavithra Hansani,Head Coach: Saliya Kumara.
Tournament details
– Venue: Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, India
– Dates: November 14–15, 2026
– Competition: Asia Rugby Emirates Under-20 Sevens Championship
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