Royal Tuskers ready to make their mark at Dubai Rugby 7s 2024
View(s):The Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s, one of the most prestigious events in the global rugby calendar, is set to welcome back a unique team to its ranks. The Royal Tuskers, representing the Old Royalists rugby team in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), will once again compete in the Gulf Men’s Social League of the tournament, scheduled from November 29 to December 1 at the iconic Sevens Stadium in Dubai.
Having made history in 2023 as the first Sri Lankan school alumni rugby team to compete in the social league of the Gulf region, the Royal Tuskers are gearing up for an even stronger showing in 2024. The team, comprised of Old Royalists in the United Arab Emirates (ORUAE), brings a unique blend of camaraderie and competitive spirit to the tournament.
Team captain Dayan Diddeniya along with his dedicated team expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming tournament: “We’re better prepared this time around. Our team is committed to weekly rigorous practice sessions, honing our skills and strengthening our teamwork. We’re determined to make an impact in the tournament this time around.”
The Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s, celebrating over five decades of rugby excellence since its inception in 1970, remains as one of the longest-running sports events in the Middle East. The tournament features three divisions — Gulf Men’s League, Gulf Men’s Open League and Gulf Men’s Social League, where Royal Tuskers will be featured, as they face off other teams divided into groups.
The Royal Tuskers boast a strong leadership structure under skipper Dayan Diddeniya with Arshad Jamaldeen as the vice captain. Jason Brown from Wales is the Head Coach of the side, where Sudesh Rohana functions as the Fitness Trainer and Uthpala Ranatunga takes responsibility as the Team Manager. Patron of ORUAE, Danika Gamage along with President, Shihan Sheriff, Secretary, Shanaka Perera and the team also play vital roles in the side’s success.
The Royal Tuskers’ journey to the Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s is made possible by the generous support of sponsors. Amal Events comes forward as premium sponsor, in addition to Spider Plus Construction Equipment Trading, who are platinum sponsors. The main sponsor is IMM Consult, while ThePapare.com have come aboard as the digital media partner. Lion Beverages and Thambapanni Restaurant have stepped up as additional sponsors of Royal Tuskers.
“The Royal Tuskers’ participation in this prestigious tournament is a testament to the enduring spirit of school alumni associations. Since its formation in 1999, this team has been a fixture in tag rugby and 7-a-side rugby events across the Emirates, embodying the passion and dedication of Old Royalists in the region,” noted the captain of the team, Dayan Diddeniya.
With nearly three months away for the Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s, Royal Tuskers go out with the aim of leaving their mark at this world class tournament, which is part of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.