Excitement is building in Sri Lanka, where the matches will also be broadcast nationwide, promising a new chapter in the country’s proud rugby tradition. The games will also be broadcast in New Zealand and globally on NZR+.
Sri Lanka boasts a rich rugby heritage, particularly at the high school level, and there is great anticipation for the arrival of the New Zealand squad. The Tuskers are expected to relish the opportunity to test themselves against some of the best weight-restricted rugby players from New Zealand.
The New Zealand Under 85kg squad is packed with talent, drawn from 13 leading clubs across the country. Twelve players featured in last season’s thrilling National Club Cup Final, representing Christchurch’s High School Old Boys Light Bears (seven players) and Auckland’s Pakuranga Black Panthers (five players). Despite this being the first official New Zealand Under 85kg national side, the team brings significant experience and international flair.
Jarred Percival, who has previously represented the Heartland XV, adds leadership and grit to the squad. Meanwhile, former Dutch international Tyler Koning and ex-England U18 prop Tom Rowland bring valuable overseas experience, strengthening the team’s credentials ahead of the two-match series.
New Zealand Rugby’s Head of Rugby Participation, Mike Hester, described the Tour as a landmark moment for weight-restricted rugby.
“If the thrilling Final in Wellington was anything to go by, we can expect this squad will showcase everything we love about this grade; speed, skill, and camaraderie. Having an international stage to do that on is a fantastic opportunity for these players and the promotion of this exciting version of the game,” said Hester.
Leading the New Zealand team is coach Ngatai Walker, a highly respected figure who currently serves as a skills coach with Manawatu and has previously worked with Hurricanes Poua, Taranaki Development, and New Zealand Secondary Schools sides. His guidance will be key as the team looks to inspire a new generation of weight-restricted rugby players around the world.
The series promises to deliver fast, skilful, and entertaining rugby, celebrating the spirit of the game at a weight class where heart and skill take centre stage. Fans in New Zealand around the globe can tune into NZR+ to witness history in the making.
Register for NZR+ for free HERE.
Game One: New Zealand Under 85kg v Sri Lanka Tuskers, Sunday May 4, 4pm SLT (Sunday 4 May, 10.30pm NZT), Nittawela Rugby Stadium, Kandy.
Game Two: New Zealand Under 85kg v Sri Lanka Tuskers, Saturday May 10, 6.30pm SLT (Sunday 11 May, 1am NZT), Race Course Grounds, Colombo.
Coverage
New Zealand – NZR+ and Sky Sport
Global - NZR+
Sri Lanka – Dialog
WATCH last year's national final between the Light Bears and Black Panthers below: