The Sri Lanka national hockey teams delivered determined performances at the Asian Hockey Federation Cup 2025, held in Jakarta, Indonesia under the auspices of the Asian Hockey Federation. While the men’s team finished in 7th place, the women’s team showed notable improvement by securing 5th place, one step ahead of their 2016 finish.

Men’s Team Recap – A Tough Battle

The Sri Lankan men’s team, placed in Group ‘B’ during the preliminary round, managed only one win – a 2-1 victory against host Indonesia. They held Thailand to a 1-1 draw but suffered defeats against Bangladesh (5-0) and Kazakhstan (3-2), finishing 4th in the group.

In the classification round for 5th–8th place, Sri Lanka lost a tight match against Hong Kong (5-4). However, they bounced back in the playoff for 7th place, defeating Thailand 6-4 in an entertaining and high-scoring encounter. Despite their efforts, Sri Lanka could not replicate the success of the previous edition, where they secured a bronze medal.

Women’s Team Recap – A Step Forward

The women’s tournament followed a league format with six teams. Sri Lanka finished with two draws – 2-2 against Indonesia and 2-2 against Uzbekistan – while enduring three losses to Chinese Taipei (5-1), Singapore (5-2), and Hong Kong (5-0).

In the 5th place playoff, Sri Lanka faced Uzbekistan once again. With the game ending 3-3 in regulation time, the outcome was decided via an 8-second penalty shootout, where Sri Lanka emerged victorious 3-1. This result marks an improvement from their 6th-place finish in 2016.

Rising Star Recognized

A standout performer in the women’s team was forward Nipuni Ishara Fernando, who was recognized as a promising young talent in the tournament. Her attacking prowess and energy on the field highlighted Sri Lanka’s potential for future regional success.

Sri Lankan Sports TV extends its congratulations to both national teams for their commitment and performance on the international stage, and looks forward to their continued progress in upcoming competitions.

Sri Lanka Women produced a composed and clinical batting display to chase down South Africa Women’s total of 235 in a strong all-round performance, continuing their rise in international women’s cricket.

Chasing 236 for victory, Sri Lanka began confidently during the powerplay, putting on 47 runs for the loss of just one wicket in the first 10 overs. The opening platform set the tone for a steady and calculated innings, anchored by key partnerships and individual brilliance.

The second-wicket stand between Vishmi Gunaratne and Harshitha Samarawickrama (Perera) added 50 runs in just 54 balls, giving the visitors momentum. By the 14th over, Sri Lanka Women were comfortably placed at 77/1.

The middle order shone as Harshitha Madavi and Kavisha Dilhari took control, both registering half-centuries in a pivotal 100-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Madavi reached her fifty in 65 balls, while Dilhari followed shortly with a fluent 61-ball half-century that included five boundaries and a six.

By the 41st over, Sri Lanka had crossed the 200-run mark with seven wickets in hand, cruising toward victory. The pair’s calm approach under pressure ensured that South Africa never regained control of the match.

Earlier in the day, South Africa posted 235/9 in their 50 overs, thanks largely to a resilient knock of 61 from Annerie Dercksen and a solid middle-order partnership with Chloe Tryon. However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers maintained discipline throughout, especially during the death overs, to restrict the hosts to a chaseable total.

This win not only highlights Sri Lanka’s growing depth and maturity in women’s cricket but also sends a strong signal ahead of future ICC tournaments. With batters like Madavi and Dilhari leading the charge and a disciplined bowling unit to back them, Sri Lanka Women continue to impress on the global stage.

Score Summary:

• South Africa Women: 235/9 (50 overs) – Annerie Dercksen 61, Chloe Tryon 34

• Sri Lanka Women: 236/3 (approx. 41 overs) – Harshitha Madavi 50*, Kavisha Dilhari 50*

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.