ST. PETER'S COLLEGE RUGBY SKIPPER SUSPENDED ?

It is reported that Defending champions St. Peter’s College will compete in the upcoming Dialog Under 19 Inter-School Division 1 League Rugby Tournament without their designated 2025 skipper, as the repercussions of a sexual abuse case continue to impact the school.

The captain, who is the highest try-scorer from the previous Schools League Tournament, reportedly has been suspended and removed from the captaincy for the entire season.

Rugby analysts anticipate his absence will be a significant blow to the team coached by Sanath Martis, who were aiming for a third consecutive title.

This drastic action by school authorities reportedly followed a written assurance sought by the victim's family from St. Peter's College Rector, Rev. Fr. Rohitha Rodrigo, as a punitive measure to deter similar incidents in the future.

The Master-in-Charge of the first XV rugby team has also been stood down as part of the school's disciplinary proceedings.

Reportedly, the case related to the alleged incident was last heard before the Colombo Additional Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, May 27, and has been postponed until Thursday, June 5.

The five St. Peter's players, including the captain, who were previously released on bail in connection with the incident, were present at the last hearing.

It is reported that a source from the victim’s family indicated that they intend to withdraw the case next week, provided the first XV rugby team captain is duly removed from his leadership role and suspended for his involvement in the incident.