• Leaves with legacy set in stone

Renowned rugby coach Sanath Martis has stepped down as the head coach of St. Peter’s College first XV rugby team, after the school authorities had informed him of their decision to seek a change in the coaching set up for the next season.

When contacted Martis, who was instrumental in turning the ‘Bamba Brigade’, into a title-winning outfit during his tenure, confirmed that he has quit his position, to make way for the school to head in a new direction.

However, St. Peter’s led by Vishenka Silva endured an underwhelming 2025 season having opted out of the President’s Trophy Knockouts due to disciplinary issues, and then finishing one above the bottom placed Isipthana College, in the Cup segment of the subsequent league tournament. 

The former national coach and a household name in the domestic rugby circuit, guided the Petes to no fewer than five league titles including four unbeaten championships and two back-to-back triumphs at that.

His impressive coaching CV is littered with seven President’s Trophy Knockouts, with three consecutive wins which was sandwiched with a historic unbeaten triple and one Carlton 7’s and more than five additional schools 7’s championships.

Beyond the silverware, coach Martis has been instrumental in producing numerous national players and captains since 2005, which rugby analysts say is a true testament to his vision and gifted ability to nurture talent.

He leaves St. Peter’s with his legacy there not only written in trophies, but also in the discipline, sportsmanship and values, instilled in every player who has had the privilege of donning the Blue, White and Gold, under his tutelage.