By Harsha Amarasinghe 

The Sri Lanka National Rugby Team is set to host New Zealand Under-85kg Rugby Team in May next year. 

The two side will go head-to-head in two games after New Zealand Rugby (NZR) accepted an invitation from SLR in a bid to help Sri Lanka flourish in the fifteens game. 

NZR General Manager Steve Lancaster believes that the two-match series would be a great opportunity to develop weight-grade rugby. 

“It’s exciting to confirm this inaugural tour for our Under-85kg National Team and playing against an open-weight national side will be a great challenge for them. 

“We have also worked closely with the New Zealand High Commission in Sri Lanka in establishing the tour and are extremely grateful for their help in supporting the tour and promoting rugby in the region.”

Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya expects this to be a historical moment in the history of Tuskers rugby. 

“This occasion promises to energise the nation’s rugby enthusiasts as they witness a powerhouse of the sport take on our National Team in two thrilling matches.” 

“We look forward to celebrating this historic occasion together, uniting through our shared passion for the game,” said Dr. Amarasuriya.