Sri Lanka’s National Men’s and Women’s Rugby teams, the ‘Tuskers’, returned to the island this morning after clinching a historic double championship at the inaugural Central Asia South Asia (CASA) Sevens Rugby Tournament in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Arriving through Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), the teams were greeted with an official reception at the Silk Route/VIP lounge, where Sri Lanka Rugby President Pavithra Fernando, officials from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, senior officers of the Army and Air Force, parents, friends, and rugby enthusiasts gathered to welcome the champions.
Garlands and trophies marked the triumphant return, with dignitaries conveying the nation’s gratitude for bringing international glory.
The men’s team, captained by Srinath Sooriyabandara and vice‑captain Janidu Dilshan, dominated the final against India with a commanding 31‑10 victory, securing the first‑ever CASA Sevens men’s crown.
The women’s team, led by captain Charani Liyanage and vice‑captain Sanjeewani Wijetilake, stunned Kazakhstan with a 27‑0 clean sheet to capture the women’s title.
Both squads remained undefeated throughout the tournament held on May 16–17, showcasing skill, discipline, and dominance that rewrote regional rugby history. (Newswire)