Rugby at Isipathana College (formerly Greenlands College) started in 1960 under Randy Keller with an Under-17 team and the first official first XV team was fielded in 1963. Since then, Isipathana rugby has become a unique brand in the Sri Lankan rugby circuit. 

Ex-Sri Lanka, CR, and Isipathana prop Dhanushka Botheju is the head coach for the 2025 rugby season. Botheju, popularly known as ‘Bottha’, has had previous coaching stints at S. Thomas’, St. Joseph’s, Zahira, and DS. At inter-club level, Botheju has coached Havelock SC, CH, and FC, Police SC, and CR, and FC, mainly handling the forwards. He is also a World Rugby level 2 qualified coach, which further enhances his coaching credentials.

In 1997, the Pathana lads created a milestone and reached the rugby pinnacle, becoming the first Sri Lankan rugby school to win the Grand Slam (League, Knockouts, Sevens, 10s, and all possible championships). They repeated the feat in 1999. 

They were also the first to win the Triple Crown, securing victories in the League, Sevens, and the inaugural Premadasa Trophy championship, repeating it in 1986 and 1992. 

Isipathana College, affectionately known as the ‘Green Machine,’ is a powerhouse in Sri Lankan school rugby, consistently contending for top honours. Fresh off their President's Trophy win, few months ago, they are still one of the front runners for the League championship title along with Trinity, Wesley, S. Thomas’ and Royal. With their sights set on the Schools Rugby League title, we sat down for a chat with the captain, Thrinethra Dodangoda, on the team's journey and aspirations.

Following are the excerpts from the interview:

Isipathana College has been incredibly consistent in school rugby, securing four league titles in the last decade, second only to Royal College. What do you attribute this consistent performance to?

I think it comes down to a few things: a strong rugby culture within the school, dedication from the players, and continuity in our coaching staff. We have a clear vision and everyone, from the first XV to the juniors, buys into it. The legacy of past teams also pushes us to maintain that high standard.

The last league title was an unbeaten run in 2022 under Dahan Wickramarachchi. How much of an inspiration is that team to the current squad?

It's a huge inspiration. To go unbeaten is incredibly difficult, and that team set a benchmark for us. We definitely look to their discipline and teamwork as something to emulate. It reminds us that it's possible if we all commit fully.

Last year, you were in contention until the very end but fell short against St. Peter's College. How has that experience shaped the team's approach this season?

That loss definitely fuelled our determination. It showed us that even when you're close, you need to push that much harder. We learned a lot about composure under pressure and the importance of every single game. We're using that experience as motivation to go one better this year.

Isipathana had a dominant run in the 2010s, winning the league in 2012, 2014, and 2016. What are your thoughts on those teams and their captains?

They were truly great teams under the leadership of Kumendra Dharmadasa, Senal Deelaka, and Kushan Indunil. Each of those captains led by example and left a significant mark on Isipathana rugby. We often look back at their performances and the way they played, especially their resilience and tactical awareness. They set a high bar for us to follow.

This year's squad seems to have a different focus, with a strong emphasis on the forwards. Can you tell us more about that shift and how it's impacting your game?

You're right, our forwards have been outstanding this season. We've put a lot of work into our pack, focusing on set-pieces, rucks, and mauls. They've been incredibly effective in gaining crucial ground and disrupting the opposition. While our backline is equally very talented and have shown they can deliver in big moments, just like in the President's Trophy final. It's about playing to our strengths.

Nimantha Sandeepa, with his U18 Sri Lanka experience, is highlighted as a key player who can produce "miracle tries." How important is his presence to the team?

Nimantha is exceptional. He has that rare ability to create something out of nothing, which can change the momentum of a game instantly. His quick thinking and agility make him a serious threat, and having him on the field gives us that extra edge.

Who are some of the other players, perhaps from last year's squad or new youngsters, that you expect to make a significant impact this season?

We have a strong core from last year, including players like Avishka Hiran, Sithupa Bometh, Abdul Ahmed, and Adithya Madushan. They bring experience and skill. And then we have some exciting new talents stepping up. Everyone in the squad is committed to supporting each other and leaving their mark. It's a true team effort.

You've been described as possibly the best flanker in school rugby right now. With your experience, how crucial will your jumps and decision-making be for the team?

As a flanker, my role is to be involved in every aspect of the game, from lineouts to breakdowns. My focus is always on making the right decisions under pressure and securing possession. I try to lead by example and contribute wherever I can to help the team achieve its goals.

Sethum Rajapakshe is another name that comes up, particularly for his defensive effort and powerful runs. What does he bring to the team?

Sethum is an absolute workhorse. His defensive effort is unbelievable, he'll put his body on the line for every tackle. And when he gets the ball, his powerful runs often break the defensive line. He's incredibly fit and can maintain that intensity for the entire game, which is invaluable.

Shaakib Zumri, the brother of Shaahid Zumri the magician on the field, has taken on a new role as number 8. How has he adapted, and what are your hopes for him?

Shaakib has adapted remarkably well to the number 8 position. He's shown great understanding of the role and has put in some brilliant performances, especially during the Knockouts. He's a powerful runner and a strong defender, and we're all confident he'll continue to excel and be a key player for us in the league.

Dhanushka Botheju has stepped up as head coach after serving as forwards coach. How has the transition been, and what impact has the new coaching staff had?

Coach Botheju, who is also one of our alumni, has brought a lot of energy and a clear vision to the team. Having worked as the forwards coach, he understands our strengths and how to maximise them. The entire coaching staff – Assistant Coach Chanaka Chandimal, Trainer Vishwamithra Jayasinghe, and Physio Shafin Majid – work incredibly well together. Their combined expertise and dedication are a massive boost for us. Winning the President's Trophy was a testament to their efforts, and now we're aiming for the double.

There's no doubt about the expectations for Isipathana this season. You're aiming for your 14th league title. How confident are you that the Green Machine can achieve this, especially given your phenomenal track record of only four losses in 30 games since 2022?

The expectations are always high, and we embrace that. We know what we're capable of, and we've put in the hard work. Our track record shows our consistency, but we're not complacent. We take it one game at a time, focus on our processes, and trust in each other. We are absolutely determined to go one better than last year and bring the league title back to Isipathana for the 14th time. We're ready for the challenge.

Isipathana College 1st XV squad - 2025

Backs: Tharuka Oshadha, Methupa Bimsath, Shevin Peiris, Avishka Hiran (Vice Captain), Thenula Dewnitha, Rizmy Jafrad, Abdul Hakeem, Manuja Botheju, Sajith Samsudeen, Yuvindu Kodithuwakku, Sithupa Bometh, Samiru Disas, Nimantha Sandeepa, Abdul Azeez, Isuru Udayanga, Sithum Senadeera, and Shevan Yanush 

Forwards: Thrinethra Dodangoda (Captain), Shaakib Zumri, Saajid Zumri, Angelo Derrick, Lahiru Sandeepa, Nevith Meunaka, Kaveen Irosh, Demitha Kariyawasam, Sanuth Jayaweera, Demitha Wijesekara, Abdul Ahmed, Sethum Rajapaksha, Risaja Dinusara, Naveed Thahir, Lithuka Mansilu, and Damsara Witharana 

Results: Round 1

• 8 June – vs. Mahanama at Havelocks (won 34-19)
• 15 June – vs. Kingswood in Bogambara (won 32-22) 
• 22 June – vs. Dharmaraja in Nittawela (won 32-19) 
• 28 June – vs. Zahira in Maradana (won 38-27)
• 5 July – vs. S. Thomas’ in Mt. Lavinia (lost 36-24) (Rizwie Suhayb Trophy)

Fixtures: Cup Segment

• 19 July – vs. Wesley at Havelocks (won 21-17)
• 26 July – vs. Trinity in Pallekele (lost 32-10)
• 2 August – vs. St. Peter’s in Bambalapitiya
• 9 August – vs. Royal at Royal Complex (Major Milroy Fernando Trophy)