Isipathana sensation signs for Kandy SC

What a move this is. Former Isipathana College five-eighth Shahid Zumri has put pen to paper with Kandy SC, and if you watched even a single game of the 2024 Dialog Schools Rugby season, you will know exactly why this is being called the signing of the preseason.

Zumri was pure magic in a green jersey. The dynamic three-quarter racked up 90 points for the Green Machine during his final schools season, pulling off the kind of performances that had every rugby fan in the country talking. His last act in Isipathana colours could not have been scripted any better, helping the boys clinch the President’s Trophy Knockout Championship in style.

A pedigree that demanded attention

This is not a player who came out of nowhere. Zumri represented Sri Lanka in the sevens format, earned the Player of the Tournament award at both the U18 and U19 Sevens tournaments in 2023, and toured Nepal with the national squad for the Asia Rugby Emirates Trophy Sevens. There, he held his own alongside experienced Kandy SC players like skipper Tarinda Ratwatte and 2024/25 captain Srinath Sooriyabandara. It was only a matter of time before a top club came calling.

Joining Zumri at Kandy SC is fellow Isipathana teammate Kenula Mihisara, another product of the Green Machine’s rugby conveyor belt. Two Isipathana boys heading to the Hill Capital together is something every Isipathanian can feel proud about.

What this means for Kandy SC

Kandy SC will be looking to rebuild and come back stronger after a 2023/24 club season that fell below their own high standards. With the new club rugby season set to kick off next month, the addition of Zumri’s flair and finishing ability gives them a serious boost in the backline.

For those of us who followed every try, every sidestep, and every moment of brilliance during his time at Isipathana, watching Shahid Zumri light up the club rugby stage is going to be something special. Go well, Zumri. The ICOIC family is right behind you.