Trinity edge gallant Zahira to stay unbeaten as Super Round thrills continue

DEFENDING champions Trinity College underlined why they remain the team to beat in the Dialog Schools Under-19 Rugby League 2026, overcoming a determined and gutsy Zahira College outfit 37/32 in a thrilling Cup segment Super Round encounter played before a packed and vocal crowd at Maradana last weekend.

- By SHAMSEER JALEEL

The victory extended Trinity’s unbeaten run and left them on the verge of securing back-to-back League titles after surviving one of their sternest examinations of the season during their ninth visit to Colombo this year. They have one game remaining against St. Peter’s College next weekend in Bambalapitiya, which will be their final League fixture.

The Maradana showdown lived up to expectations as both schools produced an entertaining spectacle filled with attacking rugby, momentum swings, and relentless commitment. While Trinity eventually emerged victorious, Zahira earned widespread admiration for a courageous display that pushed the defending champions to the limit from the opening whistle until the final moments, producing one of their best outfits in more than six decades.

For Trinity, skipper Shan Althaf, Udan Wijekoon, Achintha Jayasena, and Akash Fernando stood out, while Basith Feroze and skipper Hakeem Chunchi played their hearts out for Zahira.

Zahira stunned the visitors with a dream start when scrum-half Afham Abdeen crossed for the opening try after just seven minutes. Flanker Shaifullah Zulfikar converted to give the home side a deserved 7/0 lead, delighting their passionate supporters who packed the stands expecting a memorable contest.