The New Zealand Under 85kg rugby squad is set to arrive in Sri Lanka tomorrow (29) for a landmark two-match series against the Sri Lanka Tuskers, marking the first official tour for New Zealand’s national weight-restricted team.
The series will be a major boost for Sri Lankan rugby fans, with both matches set to be broadcast live across the island. It also follows Sri Lanka's morale-boosting 59-19 win over Malaysia in the Asia Rugby Championship play-off earlier this month.
The Tuskers, yet to announce their full squad, are expected to feature experienced campaigners, while the visitors bring a strong unit featuring talent from 13 top New Zealand clubs. Players like Jarred Percival, Tyler Koning, and Tom Rowland add international pedigree to the Kiwi side, coached by Ngatai Walker.
The matches are scheduled for 4 May in Kandy and 10 May in Colombo, and promise high-paced, skillful rugby that highlights the heart and spirit of the 85kg grade.