Spotlight on Nuwan and Sandesh in Rugby League

Two of the finest exponents in the art of place-kicking Nuwan Perera of Air Force SC and Sandesh Jayawickrama of Havelock SC are set to resume their battle when the 2022/23 SLR Nippon Paint Inter-Club League Rugby Tournament recommences on December 29.

The two players have emerged as the most outstanding place-kickers this season having figured dominantly for their respective teams during the first two matches of the tournament.

In fact, Air Force SC fly half Nuwan Perera has made a tremendous start to the new season having already accumulated a total of 33 points through five penalties, five conversions, one drop goal and one try.

The 28-year-year-old playmaker made a fine impact last week while contributing three penalties and two conversions as the Airmen went down fighting against Havelock SC by a solitary point (35-36) in a thrilling first-round match played at Ratmalana.

Earlier, Nuwan made a lasting impression in the opening match of the tournament as he spearheaded Air Force SC to a 30-22 victory against the favourites CH and FC with one try, three conversions, two penalties and one drop goal.

Meanwhile, dynamic fly half Sandesh Jayawickrama of Havelock SC has also made an early impact with his brilliant all-round performances. The 25-year-old former Captain of St. Peter’s College has collected a total of 22 points from just two outings through seven conversions, one penalty and one try.

He has been an inspiration for the Havies this season and last week he played a major role by converting four out of the five tries and putting over a vital penalty in overcoming Air Force SC at Ratmalana. Earlier, Jayawickrama had a memorable start to the new season where he produced a splendid performance against the CR and FC with three conversions and a try at Havelock Park.