Zahira College kicked off their 2025 schools rugby season in dominant fashion with a commanding 54-19 win over Dharmaraja College at their home ground in Maradana.

While the first half was a tightly fought contest with Zahira edging ahead 15-12, the hosts exploded in the second half, running in seven tries to seal a comprehensive victory.

Early Exchanges Set the Tone

Zahira started strongly, scoring back-to-back tries in the opening 10 minutes through flankers Iyad Yusuf and Rifaz Ameen, though both conversions were missed. Dharmaraja responded with two tries of their own, from Sadesh Bandara and Pahan Rajapakse, with one converted by Damsith Ratnayake, briefly taking the lead at 12-10.

Zahira regained control just before halftime with an unconverted try from fullback Basith Feroz, going into the break with a slim 15-12 advantage.

Second Half: Zahira Run Riot

The second half was one-way traffic. Zahira’s structured offense and superior pace allowed them to dominate possession and territory. They scored seven tries in the half, converting two, while Dharmaraja managed only a single try in response.

Zahira’s forwards controlled the breakdowns while the backs executed with precision, leaving their opponents unable to match the intensity.