Three-way battle between Trinity, Peter's and Zahira

THE 2026 Dialog Schools Under-19 Rugby League enters its decisive final week with several championship races still wide open, setting the stage for a dramatic finish across all segments.

- By SHAMSEER JALEEL

Despite months of intense competition, the destination of the Cup, Plate and Bowl trophies remains undecided as leading contenders prepare for crucial final-round encounters.

Defending champions Trinity College hold a slight advantage in the race for the prestigious Cup title, but the Kandy school must overcome one final hurdle when they travel to Colombo for the 10th occasion this season in a highly anticipated clash against St. Peter’s College at Bambalapitiya. A victory would virtually seal back-to-back league titles for the Lions. Last year, they won under Usmaan Safraz.

However, Trinity cannot afford any complacency. St. Peter’s and Zahira College remain firmly in contention, and both schools possess the ability to upset the championship calculations. The Peterites, in particular, will draw confidence from their impressive record against Trinity over the past decade.

Under the leadership of skipper Shan Althaf, Trinity have enjoyed a remarkable campaign. The Lions remain unbeaten in league rugby while also capturing the Schools Knockout Championship. Their closest challenge came against Zahira, where they managed to edge past a determined Maradana outfit.

Althaf has led from the front throughout the season and has been ably supported by vice-captain Udan Wijekoon, Achintha Jayasena and Minula Yaddehige. Trinity may be without key playmaker Ammar Manzil, who remains a doubtful starter for the crucial encounter due to injury.