"Strive with determination" – Motto of the Green Machine

ISIPATHANA College rugby team, who are also known as the “Green Machine” among rugby enthusiasts clinched the Schools Knockout Rugby Championship 2025 by beating Trinity College, Kandy on Sunday, 18 May marking their fourth consecutive title.

- BY NIMAL LUXSHMAN

Their victory sparked widespread discussion among rugby enthusiasts, including those without allegiance to either team. While many agree that “rugby was the winner” in this tense final, both colleges deserve credit for a superb display of skill and determination that kept spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the match.

Isipathana’s path to the final was far from easy, as they had to overcome formidable opponents — Wesley College and Royal College — in the preceding rounds. It is therefore worthwhile to review both the final and their journey to the Royal College Sports Complex last Sunday, where they faced the Trinity “Lions” from Kandy.

The final showdown