• 78th Bradby 1st Leg in Colombo tomorrow (24), 2nd Leg 7 Sept.
• A 10-year wait for the Lions in the hills

We are just a night’s sleep away from the Blue Riband event of Sri Lankan rugby and arguably the most well attended school rugby fixture in the world, The 78th Bradby Shield will kick off tomorrow at the Royal College Sports Complex in its 1st Leg clash where the hosts Royal College will be eyeing their record 6th consecutive win whilst the lads from the hill capital Trinity College are yearning for a rightful victory since Tarinda Ratwatte’s victorious 2014 side, they had a slight taste of the silverware in 2016 when the series saw it’s second drawn encounter. 

78th Bradby Shield (2024)

Royal:                                                                                                                            

Captain – Thivain Perera  

Coach – Dushanth Lewke

Last win – 2023 (Randul Senanayake)                                               

Longest win streak – 5 (2017–2023) 

Trinity:

Captain – Anuhas Kodithuwakku

Coach – Fazil Marija

Last win – 2014(TarindaRatwatte)

Longest win streak – 6 (1952–1957)

Bradby Shield Tally (since 1945)

Trinity – 39

Royal – 36

Drawn – 2 

The Royal vs. Trinity is a century-old Rugby rivalry dating back to 1920, and 1945 saw the stepping stone for a historic rivalry as Royal Principal Edward Lawrence Bradby presented a shield before his departure from Ceylon for the winner of the Trinity-Royal encounter. The shield is a masterpiece of Kandyan craftsmanship with intricate Kandyan silverwork which has stood the test of time as a symbol of enduring spirit for generations of Royalists and Trinitians.  

Here’s what a few loyal rugby lovers had to say to The Daily Morning Sports:

Ravi Wijenathan – Fmr. National Selector & Bradby Winner 1979-80

The first leg will be equally poised. Although Royal beat Trinity last week, the difference was only a penalty. Royal has not played to its true potential although having talented players among the forwards and threes. The indiscipline and decision-making has been the down fault. Possession will be a major factor which will determine the final outcome when teams with equal standing meet. Trinity, with a better cohesive set of forwards and threes will have the edge even though it will not be a home game. The first leg win will determine the Bradby, and Trinity will go all out. 

Sazna Thahir – Trinity supporter 

Winning or losing is not the focus when it comes to Bradby. It’s about the culture and tradition built over the years. The excitement and hype surrounding this event have been ingrained in our minds since childhood and passed down through generations. No matter what the schedule is, we always find a way to be there for the match. The vibrant atmosphere of the hill country, combined with the red, gold, and blue flags waving through the crowd, adds to the unforgettable experience.

Boa Athu – World Rugby Coach Educator & Bradby Winner 1998

Bradby Shield is sacred. The holy grail of Sri Lankan rugby. For most of these boys the Bradby will be the greatest game they ever play in their rugby careers. I hope they make it memorable and they make great memories. It is something to be cherished for the rest of their lives. you are the chosen few. Leave everything on the field, empty the tank so you do justice to the jersey you have earned and represent those who have worn it before you.

Lithmal Moragoda – 2022 Trinity Skipper

Representing the Red, Gold, Blue jersey in Bradby Shield was the proudest achievement in my life. It is more than just a game, it’s a blend of passion, rivalry and tradition, it’s a legacy in the making. The history, intensity and sheer excitement of Bradby is an experience like no other. My message to everyone would be to give their fullest and leave no regrets in that field. The memories we carry, the dreams we couldn’t achieve – they all rest on your shoulders now. Play each match like it’s your last, savour every moment, and make us all proud. Play with fire, play with heart and make Bradby one to remember.

Thanuka Pathirage – RC Group of 2017

The Bradby Shield is more than just a rugby match; it's a cherished tradition, a fierce yet respectful rivalry. For generations, it has been an event that unites everyone. Bradby is a reminder that rugby, at its core, is about heart and soul, not just winning.

Azmir Fajudeen – Fmr. Havelocks skipper and Bradby Winner 2015

Ahh Bradby. For some it’s two schools playing two times but for me it means far beyond that. From a young age, watching great men going to battle with the blue and gold armour makes you want to do it at one point in life. Gracing the field with your brothers with the same armour at the Bradby is what we dream of. Winning the Bradby is not everything, It is the only thing. At last I am grateful, honoured and proud to be a part of the blue ribbon of Sri Lanka and nothing will come as close to that.

Abdellah Yusuf – Fmr. Royal Skipper

At the start of the season you’d have to say that Royal looked clearly the better team. However since the defeat to DSS, Trinity have upped their game and despite not being able to be on the correct side of the result in key matches they have shown good progress. Looking ahead at the 1st Leg, playing at home Royal will go in as favourites. They will look for a good performance as well as a good win since they would not want to go up to Pallakale having to chase the game.

Sudarshana Peiris – Sportscaster, Trinity 1st XV 2006/07

Bradby embodies the spirit of tradition, pride, and fierce determination. It’s more than a game; it’s a celebration of our heritage and a testament to our unwavering unity. As we approach this year's clash, I'm excited to witness how the warriors of both schools will script their piece of history in this year's encounter. Good Luck to both the teams.

Nikhil George 

For me, the Bradby Shield is also a symbol of the values that were instilled in us during our school years – discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Watching the match, whether from the stands or with friends, is a powerful experience that reignites that old school spirit and reinforces the bond we have with our alma mater.

Kapila Waidyatilleke – Teacher, Rugby Coach/Referee 

It is the time of the year where your passion is tested. Your bodies are tested. Despite your age, many things are tested on field and off field. Some become a part of the game in mind, others have the opportunity to be a part in person. The Bradby is a natural force. The shield is never given up by any side.

Meanwhile on a sombre note both Royalists and especially Trinitians will be missing their teammate Shabeer Ahmed who passed away a few months ago just before wearing the proud Red Gold and Blue Lion jersey for Trinity, we hope both teams will play their hearts out and uphold the spirit of the game!