Sri Lanka to Face Hong Kong China in 2026 Asia Rugby Top 3 Opener
Sri Lanka will begin their 2026 Asia Rugby Top 3 campaign against Hong Kong China at the Racecourse Ground on Sunday, May 24, with kick-off scheduled for 3.00 p.m.
The highly anticipated match is expected to challenge the depth of the Sri Lankan squad, especially after delays in announcing the final 25-member player pool. The delay was mainly due to several leading sevens players being unavailable as they remain contracted for the Asian Sevens programme and preparations for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan later this year. In addition, nearly 10 key players suffered injuries during the latter stages of club rugby competitions.
As a result, Head Coach Dushanth Lewke has been forced to reshuffle combinations and introduce fresh talent, with several players likely to earn their first international caps in the opening fixture. Despite these setbacks, the Tuskers will aim to use home advantage and strong local support to build momentum.
Hong Kong China, who have already qualified for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, are also expected to field a second-string side. Nevertheless, their structure, speed, and international experience still make them formidable opponents.
Sri Lanka will need discipline, powerful forward play, and composure under pressure if they hope to upset the visitors in this important opening clash.
Former Science College, Havelocks, and CR & FC captain Lasindu Karunathilake will captain the side, while Tharindu Chaturanga has been appointed vice-captain.
The match referee will be James Fairbourn.
Remaining Asia Rugby Top 3 Fixtures
- Hong Kong China vs South Korea – June 7 at Hong Kong Football Club
- South Korea vs Sri Lanka – June 13 at Namdong Asia Rugby Stadium, Incheon, South Korea
Sri Lanka Squad
Hansith De Silva, Shamika Kaushan, Vimukthi Gamage, Thilina Bandara, Naveen Marasinghe, Tharindhu Chathuranga, Denuwan Wickramarachchi, Lasindu Karunathilake, Aruna Perera, Mursheed Zubair, Arosh Rathnayake, Thenuka Nanayakkara, Gamunu Chethiya, Pasindu Bandara, Yuwan Pathirana, Venura Kodhagoda, Sabith Musheen, Nisal Silva, Shenal Adhikaram, Naham Hemachandra, Viduna Amaneth, Asiri Senivirathne, and Chirantha Kaluarachchi.
Coaching Staff
- Head Coach: Dushanth Lewke
- Assistant Coach: Henry Terance
