- In conversation with D.S. rugby captain and coach
If a team was to be pointed out as the most improved outfit in Sri Lanka Schools Rugby in the past decade, D.S. Senanayake College Colombo unarguably deserves a top spot.
The ‘Dons’ clinched the Plate Championship title in this year’s league campaign after a successful second round display of sheer brilliance playing until the final whistle. In the process, the ‘Dons’ defeated the much fancied St. Joseph’s College after 32 years in their Plate Championship title decider at Longden Place this year.
D.S. Senanayake College’s rugby journey started in 1976. The school worked hard to build its rugby programme over the years.
The post 2020 era has been a remarkable time for D.S. rugby. In 2022, they won the Division-1 Segment ‘B’ title, showing their growing strength. This success moved them back into the top-tier Division 1 Segment ‘A’ in 2023, proving they were ready to compete with the best by defeating traditional powerhouses – St. Anthony’s, Wesley and Kingswood – in a memorable season.
The 2024 season further confirmed their strong position with a good sixth-place finish in the league, highlighted by their first-ever win against the strong Trinity College, Kandy.
The D.S. Senanayake rugby team benefits greatly from its experienced and dedicated coaching staff, led by Head Coach Asela Deshapriya who had his rugby roots at C.W.W. Kannangara College, Colombo and is a well-decorated coach, who is also the only coach in the current club and school setup who hasn’t played ‘A’ Division rugby.
Deshapriya is a clear testament to sheer resilience as he competes with coaches from top rugby-playing schools with plenty of rugby pedigree.
He was supported by Ashane Dassanayake as Assistant Coach, Sunimal Manamperi in the strength and conditioning department, Gayan Salinda (kicking coach) as well as Dinesh De Silva and Janindu Fernando as Assistant Coaches.
DSS road to glory 2025
Results : Round 1
Won 26-19 vs. St. Anthony’s: 6 June – Nittawela (Alles Cup)
Lost 29-10 vs. Wesley: 15 June – Longden Place
Won 22-18 vs. Ananda: 21 June – Ananda Grounds
Won 36-29 Science: 27 June – Havelock Park
Lost 24-17 vs. St. Peter’s: 5 July – Bambalapitiya
Results : Round 2
Won 41-35 vs. Zahira: 19 July – Maradana (Alles Trophy)
Won 26-19 vs. Sumangala: 26 July – Pallekele
Won 37-36 vs. St. Joseph’s: 3 Aug – Longden Place
Won 34-33 vs. Kingswood: 10 Aug – Havelock Park
The Daily Morning sat down for a chat with two outstanding pillars of the 2025 DSS rugby season.
Following are excerpts from the interview:
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As the captain of D.S. rugby 2025, how do you feel about winning the Plate title?
While we had hoped to go further and compete for the main championship, winning the Plate title is a great privilege and a huge honour for the team. It’s a testament to our hard work and resilience throughout the season. We set a goal to make a significant impact on D.S. rugby, and securing this title shows that we’re moving in the right direction. Every player on this team gave their all, and this victory belongs to all of them.
Tell us about your journey at D.S. rugby 2025, how did you prepare as one team?
Our journey this season was built on a strong foundation. We started with a productive off-season and a focused pre-season, where the team’s commitment was evident. The boys were hungry for success and wanted to bring a fresh energy to D.S. rugby. We approached each match with a singular goal: to give our absolute best and improve with every game. This mindset of focusing on one match at a time helped us stay grounded and push through challenges. We bonded as one unit, working tirelessly on and off the field to achieve our collective ambitions. The brotherhood in the team was our greatest strength, and it’s what truly defined our season.
How did you get into rugby, tell us about your pathway from junior rugby?
I first fell in love with rugby at a very young age. I used to watch matches and was captivated by the intensity and camaraderie of the sport. In grade 6, I decided to try it out and went for my first rugby practice. From that moment on, I was hooked. The thrill of the game and the teamwork required to succeed resonated deeply with me. It was a clear path from there – I continued playing throughout my junior years, learning the fundamentals and developing a passion that has only grown stronger over time. Rugby has taught me so much about discipline, sacrifice, and leadership.
What was the toughest battle in your rugby life at D.S.?
It was definitely our match against St. Joseph’s College. We were down, and with just five minutes left on the clock, we needed to score two tries to win. It felt like an impossible task, but the team’s spirit was unbreakable. No one gave up. We dug deep, supported each other, and fought until the final whistle. The boys showed incredible courage and determination, and we managed to pull it off. That win was a turning point for us; it was a crucial step that ultimately paved the way for us to win the Plate Championship.
Before saying adios to the 2025 season, what will be your word of advice for the future rugby players of D.S. Senanayake College?
To every future rugby player who will wear this jersey, my message is simple: protect the legacy and play with all your heart. The badge on your chest is more than just a symbol; it’s a legacy built with the blood, sweat, tears and sacrifices of the players who came before you. When you feel tired, when you’re losing, when nothing seems to be going right, look to the brother next to you and play for him. That sense of unity is what makes us D.S. Cherish every moment you have on the field and continue to make the D.S. legacy proud. Remember, it’s not just about the win; it’s about the effort you put in and the bond you build with your teammates.
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How do you feel about winning the Plate Championship this year?
I’m extremely happy and proud. Bringing home the Plate Championship is a massive achievement for D.S. – it’s the first time we’ve secured a 15-a-side Division-A trophy. At the start of the season, our goal was to finish in the top six, but unfortunately, we couldn’t make it. However, going into the second-round, we regrouped, refocused, and committed ourselves to bringing the Plate Championship to D.S. I’m grateful to my players, the coaching staff, D.S. school management, the RDF, and all the parents – everyone worked hard and gave their full support to make this dream a reality.
What are your thoughts on the overall season?
This was a very challenging season. We lost 15 players from last year’s squad, including eight from the starting lineup. That meant we had to rebuild with mostly new and inexperienced players, while most of our opponents fielded seasoned teams. Despite the odds, our players stuck to the game plan and improved with every match. I’m especially proud of how the boys performed and matured over the season – they truly gave it their all.
Tell us how you first got into coaching and your journey so far?
I began my coaching career in 2003 as a junior coach. From 2004 to 2008, I served as the assistant coach at my alma mater, C.W.W. Kannangara College, and then from 2009 to 2014, I was appointed head coach. During my time there, we elevated Kannangara to Division-A and won several 7s Plate and Bowl Championships. I have also contributed as a junior coach at Nalanda, Wesley, D.S., and Ananda.
In 2015, I joined Royal College as the under-16 head coach and then led the under-18 squad during the 2017-2018 seasons. In 2018, I took on the role of Head Coach at D.S. Senanayake College for the 1st XV team, and I’ve proudly been serving in that position ever since.
How is the support system at D.S. for rugby?
The support at D.S. is absolutely incredible. It’s one of the key reasons we were able to rise from B-Division to A-Division. The school management, RDF, OBA, parents, and coaching staff all work hand-in-glove with great passion and commitment to develop D.S. rugby. Without that unified support, our journey wouldn’t have been possible.
What’s your message to the future D.S. rugby players and all young rugby players out there?
D.S. has now built a rugby legacy – we’ve made history. I urge all young DSSC players to continue this journey and play with pride for mother D.S. And to all young rugby players: rugby is not just a game – it’s a test of strength, speed, and character. To win, you must be willing to put in the hard work. Train to improve your physical and mental strength. Focus on developing your skills, increasing your work rate, and studying your opponents, so you can prepare and respond effectively. Most importantly, play with heart – for your team, your school, and your goals.
DSS 1st XV 2025
Forwards: Lankesh Wickramasinghe (captain), Methila Pieris (vice captain), Demika Vindinu, Thiviru Uthmina, Geethma Dissanayake, Viruja Jayathileke, Shenal Kethmina, Buddhi Peiris, Chanmira Senvindu, Chamika Gimhana, Mohamed Ihsan, Yerash Bumuddaka, Sathila Rumeth, Tharusha Nethmal, Thimath Bogahawatta, Dushal Ayeshmantha, and Praveen Lakmal
Backs: Rasindu Bandara (vice captain), Sandeep Caldera, Sujeewa Kumara, Resath Fernando, Ushan Kavishka Priyalal, Kavindu Hansaka, Lithum Weerasinghe, Buddhitha Rusiru, Kinith Gimhan, Tatheera Dahamdiv Perera, Pahan Nimsara, Induwara Dineth, Sanu Perera, Thenula De Silva, Yasanda Dinan, Lihara Wickramasinghe, and Chamith Samarasinghe