Isipathana College rugby: continuing the Green Machine legacy

Isipathana College, fondly known as the Green Machine, has long been one of the most formidable and consistent forces in Sri Lankan schools rugby. Whenever the conversation turns to school rugby excellence, Isipathana College is always at the forefront. Over the last decade, the Greens have firmly established themselves as perennial title contenders, winning four Schools Rugby League championships, a tally second only to Royal College during the same period.

The most recent league triumph came in 2022, when Isipathana stormed through the competition as unbeaten champions under the inspirational leadership of Dahan Nithina. Last season, the Green Machine once again demonstrated their championship pedigree, remaining in contention for the title until the final stages before finishing runners-up to eventual champions St. Peter’s College. Earlier in the decade, Isipathana enjoyed a golden run, lifting the league trophy in 2012, 2014, and 2016, captained respectively by Kumendra Dharmadasa, Senal Deelaka, and Kushan Indunil. These victories continue to define Isipathana’s proud rugby heritage.

The 2025 Squad: A New Identity

The 2025 Isipathana outfit presents a slightly different profile compared to recent years. This season, the emphasis has shifted decisively towards forward dominance. The Green Machine’s pack has emerged as one of the most powerful and disciplined units in schools rugby, excelling in set pieces, breakdown work, and physical exchanges.

While the backline may not possess the same flamboyance seen in previous seasons, it is filled with promising talent capable of delivering when it matters most. Their ability to rise to the occasion was evident during the President’s Trophy Knockouts, where composure under pressure proved decisive.

Players to Watch

Leading the side is Thrinethra Dodangoda, one of the most accomplished flankers in schools rugby today. A leader by example, his experience, line-out expertise, breakdown efficiency, and decision-making will be pivotal to Isipathana’s success throughout the season.

Sethum Rajapaksha remains a cornerstone of the forward unit, renowned for his tireless defensive work rate, physical ball-carrying, and ability to play the full eighty minutes at high intensity. His presence adds steel and resilience to the Green Machine’s engine room.

Shaakib Zumri, transitioning into the No. 8 role this season, has adapted impressively. Despite the positional change, he has produced several outstanding performances during the Knockouts and continues to be a key attacking and defensive asset.

In the backs, Nimantha Sandeepa, a former Sri Lanka Under-18 representative, stands out as a genuine match-winner. His pace, footwork, and ability to create opportunities from broken play make him a constant threat to opposing defences.

Supporting this core are experienced campaigners Avishka Hiran, Sithupa Bometh, Abdul Ahmed, and Adithya Madushanka, alongside an exciting group of young players eager to make their mark and contribute towards another successful season.

Coaching Structure

The Green Machine enters the 2025 season under the guidance of Dhanushka Botheju, who steps up as Head Coach after serving as the forwards coach in recent years. His deep understanding of the Isipathana rugby culture and emphasis on physicality and discipline have already yielded results.

He is supported by Assistant Coach Chanaka Chandimal, Trainer Vishwamithra Jayasinghe, and Physiotherapist Shafin Majid. Following the triumph in the President’s Trophy Knockouts, the coaching staff will be keen to maintain momentum and pursue a memorable double this season.

Expectations for the Season

Expectations within the Isipathana rugby fraternity are understandably high. The objective is clear: to challenge strongly for a 14th Schools Rugby League title and build upon last season’s runner-up finish. Since 2022, Isipathana have suffered only three defeats in 24 matches, underlining the consistency and competitive edge of the side.

Qualification for the Super Round for a fourth consecutive year remains a key target, although the challenge will be significant. Isipathana have only one home fixture in the first round and face demanding away games, particularly in the hill country.

Round One Fixtures

• 08 June – vs Mahanama College at Havelock Park

• 15 June – vs Kingswood College at Bogambara Stadium

• 22 June – vs Dharmaraja College at Nittawela Stadium

• 28 June – vs Zahira College at Zahira College Grounds

• 05 July – vs S. Thomas’ College at Big Club Grounds

Full Squad – 2025

Forwards:
Thrinethra Dodangoda (Captain), Lahiru Sandeepa, Nevith Meunaka, Kaveen Irosh, Risaja Dinusara, Naveed Thahir, Lithuka Mansilu, Damsara Witharana, Saajid Zumri, Angelo Derrick, Shaakib Zumri, Demitha Kariyawasam, Sanuth Jayaweera, Demitha Wijesekara, Abdul Ahmed, Sethum Rajapaksha

Backs:
Avishka Hiran, Samiru Disas, Tharuka Oshadha, Methupa Bimsath, Shevin Peiris, Nimantha Sandeepa, Abdul Azeez, Isuru Udayanga, Sithum Senadeera, Shevan Yanush, Abdul Hakeem, Manuja Botheju, Thenula Dewnitha, Rizmy Jafrad, Sajith Samsudeen, Yuvindu Kodithuwakku, Sithupa Bometh

Final Word

Having already captured the President’s Trophy, Isipathana College will be determined to remain focused and push for ultimate league success. With a powerful forward unit, emerging talent in the backline, experienced leadership, and a committed coaching setup, the Green Machine possesses all the ingredients required to compete at the highest level.

As always, the Green Army will stand firmly behind their team, ready to drive Isipathana College forward in their relentless pursuit of rugby dominance.