New Zealand U-85kg Rugby team clinches series whitewash over Sri Lanka

Despite a raucous home crowd providing early energy, the Sri Lankan side was unable to hold off the well-drilled New Zealanders. The match began with a fierce defensive contest, but the visitors eventually broke through to score the opening try, silencing the enthusiastic local supporters.

New Zealand added two more tries before halftime, while Sri Lanka's only response came through a penalty from fly-half Tharinda Ratwatte. At the break, the visitors held a 17-03 lead.

Ratwatte narrowed the deficit with another penalty early in the second half, bringing the score to 17-06. However, New Zealand replied almost immediately with a penalty of their own to restore the 14-point cushion. Another try before the second water break extended their lead to 27-06.

The final stages of the match saw New Zealand cross the line for a fifth try, sealing an emphatic 32-06 win and wrapping up their first tour to Sri Lanka since 1955 in style.

The tour was a significant moment in the development of Under-85kg rugby, with both teams showing strong commitment to a fast-paced, technical game. New Zealand’s performance underlined their strength in this weight-restricted format, and they were fittingly awarded the Sir Graham Hendry Trophy at the post-match ceremony.