New Zealand U-85kg Rugby Team Set for Final Showdown Today at Colombo Racecourse

This marks the concluding game of a historic tour, as it is the first time in years that a New Zealand rugby team has played on Sri Lankan soil. The visiting team made a strong statement in the opening encounter held on May 4 at the Nittawela Stadium in Kandy, defeating the Sri Lankan side convincingly with a score of 50-10.

Sri Lanka is hoping to bounce back in today’s clash with a bolstered lineup. Kandy Sports Club star Tharinda Ratwatte, who has recovered from an injury, is expected to feature prominently in the squad. His return is seen as a significant boost for the national team.

A 25-member squad has been named for the fixture, including notable inclusions such as Heshan Jansen, Dinal Ekanayake, Lasidhu Karunathilaka, Janidhu Dilshan, and Dhanushka Ranjan, all of whom have been recalled to strengthen the side.

Tickets for the much-anticipated match have already sold out, underscoring the growing popularity of rugby in Sri Lanka and the excitement surrounding this international engagement.