Colombo Hockey and Football Club (CH and FC), renowned for its historic rugby legacy, is diligently preparing under the leadership of former Wesley College captain Avantha Lee for the forthcoming Dialog Inter-Club ‘A’ Division League Rugby season set to commence in early December.
In a bid to recapture their past triumphs in rugby, CH and FC are placing their trust in Avantha’s leadership, alongside a roster of experienced players. Notable among these are Janidu Dilshan, who has represented Royal College, CH and FC, and Sri Lanka as a center, along with Ravindu Hettiarachchi, a former Isipathana player known for his Sri Lanka Sevens contributions. The team also includes Theekshana Dassanayake, a former Peterite Centre, and Ovin Hettiarachchi, who previously played as a Full back for S. Thomas’ College.
The team has bolstered its strength by acquiring two exceptional players from Sri Lanka Navy Sports Club, last year’s Clifford Cup Runners-up. The new additions, scrum half Harsha Maduranga and flanker Gihan Madushanka, are expected to further augment the team’s capabilities. Coaching responsibilities rest on Sanath Marits, previously associated with Havelocks and this year’s successful Peterite coach, who led an undefeated double champion team in the ‘A’ Division League and Knockout.
Coach Marits, with a proven track record, is anticipated to guide the Maitland Crescent team to an enhanced performance. Assisting him will be former Peterite and Havelocks fly-half Lakala Perera as the Assistant Coach, supported by Ransilu Jayathilaka taking on the role of Fitness Trainer.
The collective expertise of the coaching staff and the influx of new talent are expected to elevate CH and FC’s performance in the upcoming season. The club’s ambition to reclaim their former glory appears to be reinforced by the promising team lineup and the guidance of experienced coaches.
