COLOMBO: (ePRESS) – Shaahid Zumri, the talented fly-half and placekicker from Isipathana College, has been a standout in Sri Lankan school rugby. Recently, he achieved the rare honor of representing the Sri Lanka Rugby Sevens team in the Asian Rugby Emirates Seven Trophy held in Nepal, making his debut at just 19. His exceptional skills on the field have now earned him a spot in Kandy Sports Club for the upcoming 2025 club rugby season, marking the next chapter in his promising career.
Zumri played a pivotal role in Isipathana College’s thrilling win in the Dialog ‘A’ Division Knockout Rugby Tournament last month. His blistering runs and accurate placekicking helped secure a 34-29 victory over the formidable St. Peter’s College. This victory capped off a remarkable season for Isipathana, where Zumri’s influence was evident at every crucial moment.
Over the past few years, Zumri has built an impressive record. As the captain of the Under-18 Isipathana College team in 2023, he led his team to become All-Island Champions, winning the U19 Sevens title and being named the best player of both tournaments. In 2024, serving as the vice-captain, he continued to shine, leading Isipathana to runner-up finishes in the Schools Rugby League and capturing the Knockout Championship. Zumri’s outstanding performances earned him the Best Player award in four league matches, contributing a remarkable 70 points to his team over the season.
One of Zumri’s most significant achievements came in October 2024 when he was selected to represent Sri Lanka at the Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy in Nepal. Remarkably, he was the only schoolboy selected for the national team, joining an elite group of young players in Sri Lanka’s rugby history, such as Royal College’s Rajitha Jayasundara and Lakshman Dissanayake, who represented Sri Lanka at the Asian Games and Rugby Asiad.
Zumri’s debut on the international stage was nothing short of impressive. He scored for the national team as they secured victories against India, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kazakhstan, displaying his talent and poise under pressure. His performance further established his status as one of the country’s most exciting young rugby players.
With his move to Kandy Sports Club, Zumri is ready to bring his dynamic style of play to one of Sri Lanka’s top rugby clubs. Kandy Sports Club, which surrendered its league title to CR and FC last year, will be eager to regain its dominance in the upcoming season. Under the leadership of captain Srinath Sooriyabandara and the guidance of head coach Fazil Marija, Kandy will look to rebuild and challenge for the title once again.
Zumri’s inclusion is expected to strengthen the team’s attacking options. His accurate kicking, combined with his speed and game vision, will be crucial assets as Kandy looks to reclaim their place at the top of Sri Lankan rugby.
Shaahid Zumri’s journey from Isipathana College to the national team and now to Kandy Sports Club is a proof to his dedication, skill, and potential. As one of the few schoolboys to have donned the Sri Lankan jersey while still in school, he joins a prestigious group of players who have made an impact on the national and international stages at a young age.
With his talent and commitment, Zumri is well on his way to becoming a key figure in Sri Lankan rugby. His move to Kandy Sports Club will provide him with the platform to further develop his skills and contribute to the success of one of the country’s most storied rugby clubs. The 2025 season promises to be an exciting one for both Zumri and Sri Lankan rugby fans, as this rising star takes on new challenges and continues to make his mark on the sport.
