Colombo, October 19 — In a thrilling showdown at the Second Stage of the 2025 Asia Rugby Men’s Sevens Series, Sri Lanka edged out China 19–14 to secure third place in the Cup category, marking a proud moment for the home team and its supporters.
The match, held at the Racecourse Grounds in Colombo, saw Sri Lanka deliver a disciplined and high-energy performance, bouncing back from earlier setbacks in the tournament. The win followed a dominant 34–7 victory over China in the pool stage, showcasing Sri Lanka’s consistency and tactical edge.
🔥 Match Highlights
- Sri Lanka led with aggressive ball handling and swift counter-attacks
- China mounted a late comeback, narrowing the gap to 5 points
- Final score: Sri Lanka 19 – China 14
🏆 Tournament Context
The Second Stage of the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series featured top teams from across the region, including Japan, Hong Kong China, Malaysia, UAE, and Sri Lanka. The series is part of a multi-leg championship leading to the Grand Finale in Colombo.
Sri Lanka’s third-place finish boosts its standing ahead of the final leg and reinforces its reputation as a rising force in Asian rugby.
🎙️ Post-Match Reaction
Team captain Nigel Ratwatte praised the squad’s resilience:
“We knew China would come hard, but our boys held their nerve. This win is for our fans.”
Asia Rugby officials commended Sri Lanka’s performance and the successful hosting of the tournament, which drew large crowds and strong media coverage.
