Rugby players in the Plantation sector who were known for their diehard display of rugby and deep connection with the game is set to return in a big manner. They will conduct the Inter-Plantation Rugby Sevens at the Dickoya Maskeliya Cricket Club (DMCC) ground in Hatton on April 5.
This much looked forward event will kick off at 9 a.m. with 13 teams locking horns in this year’s annual event.
The teams which will play for Anysort Challenge Trophy are Talawakele, Kelani Valley, Elpitiya, Bogawanthalawa, Maturata, Maskeliya, Kotagala and Agrapathana combined (Lankem), Kegalle and Namunukula combined (Arpico), Pusellawa and Agalawatte (Damro) Combined, Kahawatte and Hapugastanna/Udupusallawa. Malwatte Valley will field two teams this year.
All 13 teams will be divided into 4 groups and after its group stages the tournament will move forward to Cup, Plate, Bowl and Shield encounters with the Cup final scheduled at 5 pm. This event will also take place under the watchful eyes of Lalindra Abewardena, President, DMCC.
Former Ananda rugby player and renowned Senior Planter and Sports Promoter, Manjula Samarakoon will once again serve as the Tournament Convener.
“I am excited about the event’s return, highlighting its significance as a flagship sporting event for the plantation community. With a rich history spanning over 155 years, DMCC remains a hub for sports and entertainment for planters, synonymous with hosting elite sporting events, including the annual Inter Plantation Rugby Sevens,” said Manjula at the media briefing.
Anysort Technologies Lanka Pvt. Ltd, the main sponsor, is a leading provider of advanced agro-industrial technology and services. As the market leader in the tea colour sorter industry, the company continues to drive innovation and excellence in the sector.
Malwatte Valley Plantations are the defending champions and Maskeliya Plantations were the runners-up.
As preparations for the tournament are underway, organizers are confident that this year’s event will once again produce the talent and camaraderie within the plantation community. This is not only looked forward as one of the main events of the Plantation calendar but with a rich history and tradition behind this tournament.
There will be lot of entertainment for the spectators and a good day outing for all and carnival atmosphere.
