COLOMBO, Mar 9 (ePRESS) – Former Sri Lanka international Dushanth Lewke has been appointed as the Head Coach of the national rugby team for the 2026 season, Sri Lanka Rugby announced, handing the former national forward the top job after his outstanding success with CR and FC where he guided the Red Shirts to a memorable league and Clifford Cup double this season.
Lewke, who earlier served as the forwards coach of the Sri Lanka national team, returns to the national set-up with strong coaching credentials and valuable experience both as a former national player and coach. His appointment is expected to strengthen Sri Lanka’s preparations for upcoming international competitions.
Sri Lanka Rugby also announced the coaching and support staff for the Men’s 15-a-side team. Henry Terrance has been named Forwards Coach, while Lasintha de Costa will serve as Assistant Coach. Tharanga Premakumara has been appointed as the Physiotherapist, with Vishwamithra Jayasinghe taking over duties as the Strength and Conditioning Coach.
For the Men’s Sevens team, Shamly Nawaz and Amjad Buksh have been appointed as Assistant Coaches, while Dansha Dayan will serve as the Intern Coach. Dilan Zoysa has been named Strength and Conditioning Coach, with Shafin Majid appointed as the Physiotherapist.
Sri Lanka Rugby also confirmed the coaching panel for the Women’s national team, with Leonard de Zilwa appointed as Head Coach. M. Saldeen will serve as Assistant Coach, while Nimesh de Silva has been named as the Physiotherapist.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Rugby said that interviews have already been conducted to appoint a foreign head coach for the national Sevens team, and the process has now reached its final stage, with the appointment expected to be confirmed in due course.
