Sports Minister Appoints SLR Selectors

Hon. Faiszer Musthapha Minister of Provincial Councils, Local Government and Sports, confirmed the panel of five (5) member national rugby selectors. Pic from (L - R) Nishantha Chanaka, Rohana Abayakoon, Kapila Knowlton, leslie De Silva

Former National 7s skipper Rohan Abayakoon will be the chairman of the Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) selectors until 2019. Abayakoon former Trinity College center joined Kandy SC for a couple of seasons after his school career followed by nearly a decade at Gymkhana Club in Maitland Cresecent from 1985-1994. He represented Sri Lanka from 1986 - 1994 while leading the national 7s team in 1992-1993. 

"I have been part of the selection process last couple of years under Michael Jayasekera, i hope to continue on the same line where the best players will always be picked irrespective of their schools or clubs." said the newly appointed chairman Rohan Abayakoon.

The selectors first task would be in line for the National U20 sevens team where Sri Lanka will compete in Hong Kong next month. 

Other members of the SLR selection panel are L.V Ekanayake, Lt. Col. Kapila Knowlton, Leslie De Silva and Nishantha Chanaka (Alex). 

Leslie De Silva captained Isipathana College in 1981 and joined Police SC from 1982 - 1991 whilst playing for Tuskers from 1986 - 1990 as a front row forward. He was the coach of Isipaathana 1st team in 1996 and always shared his knowledge and experience to the team. 

Kapila Knowlton represented Mahanama College and then joined Sri Lanka Army since 1995 - 2008 he was a valuable asset in that soldiers rugby team. He use to be ferocious both in attack and defense. He also played for national team from 2000-2005 and also another stint in 2008.

Nishantha Chanaka (Alex) former Lumbini player has made his College proud by climbing a long way with his passion. He captained Havelocks U24 in 1998 and represented Sri Lanka in many tours. He has been the coach for the men in pink and the national 7s in the past. 

L.V. Ekanayake another legendary player and a product of St. Anthony's College (Kandy). He captained the Eagles in 1981 then played for CR&FC and Kandy SC. The big prop forward has been a pillar of a strength for CR&FC when he captained and then to the hill capital club. He was also in the selection panel under Mr. Jayaekera along with Knowlton last couple of years.