The United Arab Emirates (UAE) defeated Sri Lanka 29-21 in the final match of the Asia Rugby Men’s Championship 2025 at the Racecourse International Stadium in Colombo today (4).

Despite early promise from the hosts, Jack Stapley’s double and dominant play by the expat-heavy UAE side proved too much for the Lankans.

Sri Lanka’s tries came through Mohamed Rifan and Shamika Kaushan, with Tarinda Ratwatte adding a conversion and two penalties. The defeat marks Sri Lanka’s third consecutive loss, leaving them at the bottom of the table and forcing them into a play-off game to remain in Asia’s top rugby division next year.