New Zealand Under 85kg team to face Sri Lanka on Sunday
April 29, 2025 09:17 am
The New Zealand Under 85kg squad is scheduled to arrive in the island tomorrow on a historic tour which comprises of two test matches.
Excitement is building in Sri Lanka, where the matches will also be broadcast nationwide.
The Tuskers are expected to relish the opportunity to test themselves against some of the best weight-restricted rugby players from New Zealand, especially after their win against Malaysia earlier this month.
Sri Lanka led by Nigel Ratwatte defeated Malaysia by 59-19 in the 2025 Asia Rugby Championship play-off game played in Colombo on 19 April.
The Lankan squad is yet to be named but is expected to feature seasoned and in-form players to take on the New Zealanders.
The New Zealand Under 85kg squad is packed with talent, drawn from 13 leading clubs across the country. Twelve players featured in last season’s thrilling National Club Cup Final, representing Christchurch’s High School Old Boys Light Bears (seven players) and Auckland’s Pakuranga Black Panthers (five players).
Despite this being the first official New Zealand Under 85kg national side, the team brings significant experience and international flair.
Jarred Percival, who has previously represented the Heartland XV, adds leadership and grit to the squad. Meanwhile, former Dutch international Tyler Koning and ex-England U18 prop Tom Rowland bring valuable overseas experience, strengthening the team’s credentials ahead of the two-match series.
New Zealand Rugby’s Head of Rugby Participation, Mike Hester, described the Tour as a landmark moment for weight-restricted rugby.
“If the thrilling Final in Wellington was anything to go by, we can expect this squad will showcase everything we love about this grade; speed, skill, and camaraderie. Having an international stage to do that on is a fantastic opportunity for these players and the promotion of this exciting version of the game,” said Hester.
Leading the New Zealand team is coach Ngatai Walker, a highly respected figure who currently serves as a skills coach with Manawatu and has previously worked with Hurricanes Poua, Taranaki Development, and New Zealand Secondary Schools sides.
The series promises to deliver fast, skilful, and entertaining rugby, celebrating the spirit of the game at a weight class where heart and skill take centre stage.
Game One:
Sri Lanka Tuskers v New Zealand Under 85kg, Sunday 4 May, 4 p.m. at Nittawela Rugby Stadium, Kandy.
Game Two:
Sri Lanka Tuskers v New Zealand Under 85kg, Saturday 10 May, 4 p.m., at Race Course Grounds, Colombo.
