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Police SC forwards could match the best
There was a time when Police had the leading rugby playing clubs back-pedaling from 1984-91. They were a force to be reckoned with. Police won the league championship (John Player) for seven years in-a-row, the last time being in 1991, under Hemantha Yatawara. They won the league and were the K.O. Runners-up in the 7s and the Premadasa trophy. Since then there has been a drought in accolades for reasons best known to them.

Secretary of Police rugby Hafeel Marso speaking to the Sunday Times, said in the past the likes of Linton, ‘Rock’ Banda. Thirumani ‘Muruga’ Jayaratnam, Norman Silva learnt the skills after joining the Police with no. school rugby background. They were hardy players, added the fire and to the ‘eight’. It proved a winning factor and they later represented the country.

In the present squad of over 30 most of them are rural youth. The present Police pack could match the best. They possess the weight, power and strength and stamina to last the 80 minutes. The team is being led by national basketball player, Pradeep Wilson. The seniors are Nilusha Fernando (centre), Sudath Dissanayake (fly-half) Chamika Thushara (wing). The Police team is coached by Shyam Siddiq. He will be assisted by former Police and Sri Lanka’s ace halfback, Sudath Sampath who is still fit to play.

DIG Nimal Lewke, is the chairman of rugby and is a keen student of the game. He gives all support and encouragement. However, the blue shirted team sans big names is no pushover side. They will play clean, hard and open rugby. They have been taught to maintain the dignity of this beautiful sport. Last year Police won the Plate defeating the Air Force in the final.

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