NZ U85kg team to clash with Sri Lanka tomorrow

This historic tour marks the first official overseas outing for New Zealand's Under 85kg national side, and excitement is already building across Sri Lanka. The two tests will be broadcast nationwide, giving local fans the chance to witness top-tier weight-class rugby in action.

The Sri Lanka Tuskers, fresh off a dominant 59-19 victory over Malaysia in the Asia Rugby Championship play-off last month, are expected to relish the challenge. Led by veteran Nigel Ratwatte, the Lankan side is yet to finalize its lineup but is anticipated to feature several in-form and experienced players eager to test their mettle against the visiting New Zealanders.

New Zealand’s squad features players from 13 top clubs across the country, including 12 who participated in last season’s thrilling National Club Cup Final. Seven players represent Christchurch’s High School Old Boys Light Bears, while five come from Auckland’s Pakuranga Black Panthers.

Though this marks the team’s debut as a national outfit, the squad brings an impressive blend of talent and international pedigree. Key figures include Jarred Percival of the Heartland XV, former Dutch international Tyler Koning, and ex-England U18 prop Tom Rowland.

New Zealand Rugby’s Head of Rugby Participation, Mike Hester, hailed the tour as a “landmark moment” for weight-restricted rugby. “If the thrilling Final in Wellington was anything to go by, we can expect this squad will showcase everything we love about this grade; speed, skill, and camaraderie,” said Hester.

Coached by Ngatai Walker — a seasoned figure currently working with Manawatu and formerly involved with the Hurricanes Poua and New Zealand Secondary Schools — the New Zealanders are expected to play an attractive and high-energy brand of rugby.

Match Schedule:

Game One: Sunday, 4 May at 4 p.m. – Nittawela Rugby Stadium, Kandy

Game Two: Saturday, 10 May at 4 p.m. – Race Course Grounds, Colombo

With both nations eager to showcase the passion and finesse of Under 85kg rugby, this two-match series is shaping up to be a milestone event for the sport.