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Nigel Ratwatte Returns to Lead Sri Lanka into a New Era of Rugby

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Veteran fullback Nigel Ratwatte has made a stunning return to the national rugby scene, not just as a player—but as the captain of a bold new Sri Lankan side that’s already begun to make headlines.

After months of speculation surrounding his future, Ratwatte has clarified that he never retired from representing Sri Lanka. “I only stepped away from club rugby. Representing the country was always a priority,” he said, addressing the rumours with calm conviction. P

There may have been some misunderstanding, but when I got the call, I was ready.”

His comeback couldn’t have been more impactful. In his first match as captain, Ratwatte led a youthful Sri Lankan team to an impressive win over Malaysia—showcasing sharp attacking play, discipline, and a renewed sense of purpose on the field.

It was a proud moment, especially captaining Sri Lanka for the first time,” Ratwatte reflected. “We had a very young squad, but they turned up well-prepared and executed our game plan with real intent

At 35, Ratwatte brings a wealth of experience to a side that is clearly in transition.

We have fewer seasoned players, so those of us with experience must step up. It’s about leading by example and helping the younger players shape their future in rugby

Now, Sri Lanka faces an exciting new challenge—the much-anticipated two-match series against New Zealand’s Under-85kg team. This unique tour will feature matches on May 4th at Nittawela Grounds and May 10th under lights at the Race Course Grounds in Colombo.

“This is a historic moment for us,” Ratwatte explained. “

To have any version of the All Blacks play in Sri Lanka is incredible. Even in the U85kg category, the professionalism, fitness, and structure they bring is something our players can learn immensely from.”

Ratwatte praised the concept of weight-restricted rugby, calling it an ideal benchmark for developing nations like Sri Lanka.

It offers a level playing field and gives us a better sense of where we stand globally. It’s great exposure.”

As for expectations from the series?

They’re still the All Blacks, so it will be a challenge. But we’re ready to give it everything,” Ratwatte stated, acknowledging the significance of the opportunity.

Looking ahead, Sri Lanka has its sights set on the Asia Rugby Championship. The team will face the UAE, South Korea, and powerhouses Hong Kong. A 40-man training squad has been assembled, which will be narrowed down to 30 ahead of the tournament.

Playing UAE and Korea at home is a big boost. Our fans bring an energy that pushes us forward,” Ratwatte added, emphasizing the power of home support.

With his experience, leadership, and renewed commitment to national duty, Ratwatte’s return signals a pivotal moment for Sri Lankan rugby—one filled with potential, purpose, and pride.

Football

Zahira College Colombo Dominate Group A — Gampola Zahira and Darussalam Battle for Second Spot

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The Group A stage of the Lifebuoy Ball Blaster 2025 Schools Football Championship is heating up, with Zahira College Colombo emerging as the clear frontrunner after an unbeaten run in their first two matches. With six points and an impressive 8–2 goal difference, Zahira are well on course to top the group and secure a direct berth to the quarterfinals.

Zahira’s attacking flair and tactical balance have made them one of the most complete teams in this year’s tournament. Their consistent performances have set the tone in Group A, making them strong contenders for the overall title.

Behind them, the battle for the second qualifying spot is intensifying between Darussalam College and Gampola Zahira College. Both teams currently sit on three points each, but Darussalam have played one match more, leaving Gampola Zahira with a crucial game in hand.

Kingswood College, despite showing moments of promise, have struggled to convert opportunities into results and remain winless after three outings.

With two group matches remaining, the race for quarterfinal qualification is expected to go down to the wire. Zahira Colombo, the current Group A leader, will likely face Vaddakkachchi Central College (D2) from Group D in the knockout stage, while the second-placed team will meet Hameed Al Husseinie College (D1) — setting up thrilling contests ahead.

SchoolMWLDGSGAGDPoints
Zahira College, Colombo220082+66
Gampola Zahira College110031+23
Darussalam College21105503
Kingswood College3030513-80

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Football

Hameed Al Husseinie and Vaddakkachchi Central March into Quarterfinals of Ball Blaster 2025

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The Group D stage of the Lifebuoy Ball Blaster 2025 Schools Football Championship concluded with Hameed Al Husseinie College and Vaddakkachchi Central College sealing their spots in the quarterfinals after a fiercely contested round of matches.

Hameed Al Husseinie topped the group with an unbeaten record, securing 7 points from three matches, including two wins and one draw. Their dominance was evident with a commanding 9 goals scored while conceding only one — showcasing a solid attacking unit and disciplined defense.

Vaddakkachchi Central College earned the second qualification spot with 5 points, winning one and drawing two matches. Despite a lower goal tally of five, their consistency and composure under pressure helped them edge out Baduriya College, who finished third with four points.

Al-Falah College, meanwhile, struggled to find rhythm throughout the group stage, finishing at the bottom without a win.

According to the tournament structure, Group D winner Hameed Al Husseinie College (D1) will face Group A runner-up (A2) in the quarterfinals, while Vaddakkachchi Central (D2) will meet Group A winner, most probably Zahira College Colombo (A1) — a clash that promises thrilling football action.

As the competition intensifies, both qualifying teams from Group D will be looking to carry their momentum into the knockout rounds and make a strong statement in their quest for the prestigious Lifebuoy Ball Blaster Championship 2025 title.


🏅 Final Group D Standings

SchoolMPWLDGSGAGDPoints
Hameed Al Husseinie College320191+87
Vaddakkachchi Central College310252+35
Baduriya College311135-24
Al-Falah College3030110-90

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Football

Lifebuoy Bodywash Ball Blaster 2025 Kicks Off in Grand Style!

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Colombo, October 9, 2025 – The wait is finally over! The Lifebuoy Bodywash Ball Blaster 1st Eleven Football Challenge Trophy 2025 officially kicked off on October 4th with a spectacular start, marking another milestone in Sri Lanka’s school football journey.

Organized under the guidance of the Ministry of Education and in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Schools Football Association (SLSFA), the event is proudly organized and broadcast by Sri Lankan Sports TV (SLSTV). The tournament showcases the best of young Sri Lankan football talent from across the island, with 16 leading Division I schools vying for national glory.

Tournament Overview

The competition features 16 top football schools divided into four groups (A–D), competing in 24 matches during the group stages.
Following the intense group battles, the top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals, followed by semi-finals and the grand finale scheduled for November 9, 2025.

The opening day witnessed Gateway College and St. Joseph’s College, Colombo setting the tone with a thrilling curtain-raiser, while matches in Gampola, Eravur, Kalutara, and Jaffna are already electrifying local crowds with football fever.

Group Line-up

Group A

  • Zahira College, Colombo
  • Darrusalam College
  • Gampola Zahira College
  • Kingswood College, Kandy

Group B

  • Aligar Central College, Eravur
  • Kalutara Muslim Central College
  • Maristella College, Negombo
  • Royal College, Colombo

Group C

  • St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
  • St. Patrick’s College, Jaffna
  • St. Benedict’s College, Colombo
  • Gateway College

Group D

  • Hameed Al Husseinie College, Colombo
  • Al Falah College, Negombo
  • Baduriya Central College, Mawanella
  • Waddakachchi Central College, Kilinochchi

Key Fixtures

  • Oct 4: Gateway College vs St. Joseph’s College (City League, 2.00 PM)
  • Oct 6: Zahira College vs Darrusalam College (City League, 4.30 PM)
  • Oct 9: St. Benedict’s College vs Gateway College (University Grounds)
  • Oct 12: St. Patrick’s College vs St. Benedict’s College (City League, 3.30 PM)
  • Oct 19: St. Patrick’s College vs St. Joseph’s College (Jaffna Durayappa, 4.00 PM)
  • Oct 25–26: Quarter Finals
  • Nov 2: Semi Finals
  • Nov 9: 3rd Place Match & Grand Final

Proud Partners Behind the Tournament

The success of the Ball Blaster 2025 is powered by the commitment and partnership of Sri Lanka’s leading brands:

  • 🧴 Title Sponsor: Lifebuoy Bodywash – Promoting health, hygiene, and youth empowerment through sport.
  • 🥤 Refreshing Partner: Elephant House Lemonade – Keeping players and fans refreshed throughout the intense tournament.
  • ✈️ Travel Partner: Sky Market Travel – Supporting smooth team travel and logistics across the island.
  • 👕 Clothing Partner: Aacty Wear – Outfitting players, officials, and referees with professional-grade sportswear.

A Celebration of Youth Football

“The Lifebuoy Bodywash Ball Blaster 2025 is not just a tournament—it’s a celebration of youth, energy, and sporting excellence,” said the organizing team of Sri Lankan Sports TV. “With the support of our sponsors and partners, we are elevating the standard of school football in Sri Lanka and inspiring the next generation of athletes.”

Watch the Action Live

Fans can experience every thrilling moment of the Ball Blaster 2025 through Sri Lankan Sports TV’s exclusive coverage, including:
🎥 Live match broadcasts
📸 Highlights and interviews
📲 Digital updates on social media

👉 Visit Sri Lankan Sports TV Online for full fixtures, results, and exclusive stories.

The Future of School Football

The Lifebuoy Bodywash Ball Blaster 2025 has already captured the hearts of fans nationwide. With passion, teamwork, and the roar of young lions on full display, the journey toward the championship promises unforgettable footballing moments that define the future of the game in Sri Lanka.

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