Sri Lanka-New Zealand U85kg rugby opener at Racecourse today

The opening game of the two-match series between Sri Lanka Tuskers and the visiting New Zealand Under 85kg Rugby team is scheduled to get underway at the Racecourse International Rugby Stadium in Colombo this evening (25).

The highly-anticipated encounter will kick-off at 7pm under floodlights.

The New Zealand U85kg side blends experienced campaigners with fresh talent from across the club scene, while the Tuskers represent Sri Lanka’s national side captained by league winning CR & FC skipper Lasindu Karunathilaka. Kandy SC skipper Tharindu Chathuranga has been named vice-captain of the squad.
 
The Tuskers lost to New Zealanders 50-10 in Nittawela and 32-16 in Colombo last year but are expected to provide a stiffer opposition in the series opener.

Following the success of last year’s historic tour, the 2026 edition is expected to draw massive crowds for both matches in Colombo and Kandy.