Sri Lions Target Dubai 7’s Glory

Sri Lanka’s symbol of pride in the United Arab Emirates, Sri Lions, are set to make another appearance in the prestigious Emirates Dubai 7's Tournament set to be kicked off on December 1 in Dubai.

They are the first Sri Lankan team to have played international men’s open rugby in the 42-year history of the tournament.

Led by Sri Lankan Sevens captain Srinath Sooriyabandara, the Sri Lions would look to go all the way this time having advanced to the semi-final stage in the previous edition. Nicknamed 'Soori', the former Isipathana College scrum-half is one of the most feared 7’s players in the Asian circuit for his sensational footwork often hitting the gaps in the opposition defence.

"It is an absolute privilege to be able to represent Sri Lions as it has helped so many young Sri Lankan sportsmen and sportswomen grow - not just in rugby but in all sports. So, I take immense pride in being able to captain this team," Sooriyabandara said during the jersey presentation held in Dubai on November 28.

Sri Lions are set to lock horns against Tropic 7's before going head-to-head against Dubai Tigers International on the opening day (December 1). They will play their third and final game of the group stage against Alpha Pack on December 2 before the knockouts scheduled to be held on December 3.

"I think we have an excellent chance of winning the tournament with the players we have in the squad... I believe it's a very strong team with a mixture of young and senior players," added the Kandy scrum-half.

In addition to Sooriyabandara, the team consisted of two more Sri Lankans in the shape of former Isipathana duo Ravindu Anjula and Adeesha Weeratunga. The two forwards have been incredibly successful for the national team in the recent past.

Sri Lions have also been boosted by the former South African sevens sensation Cecil Afrika who is known for his wonderful skills in one of the most taxing formats of rugby. The fly-half was a part of the South African team which sealed the bronze medal in the Summer Olympics 2016.

The former South African winger Bernado Botha is also set to represent the Sri Lions in this tournament with Dubai 7’s likely to be his last dance at the top level having had a glorious career.

Founded by Kelum Sujith Perera – a giant in the field of insurance in Dubai – Sri Lions is recognized as a functioning body by the Dubai and Abu Dhabi Sri Lankan Consulates.

Founded by Kelum Sujith Perera - a giant in the field of insurance in Dubai, Sri Lions is recognized as a functioning body by the Dubai and Abu Dhabi Sri Lankan Consulates.

Sri Lions which is a home away from home for many Sri Lankan sportsmen and sportswomen in the Middle East has provided the opportunity to continue their careers in a number of different sports including cricket, badminton, netball, rugby, volleyball and football.

Sri Lions made huge strides in 2022 playing in the prestigious Bukhatir League 2022. They became the first Sri Lankan side in over a decade to play a semi-final match in the biggest cricket league in the United Arab Emirates and their top-class performances saw their very own Waruna Perera sealing a spot in the UAE national team following some strong performances. Sri Lions will compete in the T20 as well as T10 tournaments of the Bukhatir League having brought former Sri Lanka fast bowler Vikum Sanjaya.

Sri Lions' badminton team has been a dominant force in Dubai having clinched the Dubai All Sports and All Summer as well as Dubai Air Badminton Tournament.

Meanwhile, its cricket team has been in splendid form having secured the Sri Lions Under 25 Asia Championship 2021. 

Sri Lions rugby team on the other hand has won the Gulf Men's 7's Championship in 2019 & 2020 as well as the Hafia Trophy in 2019. The club management has been able to involve some of the top players from Sri Lanka over the years including Srinath Sooriyabandara and Mithun Hapugoda. The Sri Lankan pride of UAE – the Sri Lions have also organized a tag rugby tournament with the participation of local clubs as well as school teams

Sri Lions President Kelum Sujith Perera says it has been an honour being able to lead this group. 

"It is both an honour and privilege to lead this organization, united under one common goal to serve our local community in order to reach our objective, it is imperative that we join hands and expand our community which is why I invite every Sri Lankan living in the UAE to embark on this exciting journey with us and see what the future has in store," the well-known sports promoter stated. 

Sri Lions Team manager Kemith Lindula is confident of the Sri Lions team ahead of the Emirates Dubai 7s. 

“For us to be able to take part in this competition itself is a huge privilege and I am very pleased with the team we have with players like Soori, Botha and Cecil," Lindula stated, "I'm wishing this team the best of luck, we have a very ambitious, yet achievable goal of raising the Sri Lankan flag up high in the UAE sky. We look forward on achieving this goal with flying colors, join us and cheer alongside, your Sri Lankan Pride!"