"Rugby Will Always Be A Part Of Who I Am" | Tarinda Ratwatte Hangs Up His Boots

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s rugby fraternity is bidding farewell to one of its most iconic players as national captain Tarinda Ratwatte announced his retirement, closing a remarkable chapter that began in 2006 at Trinity College and culminated in leading the national team.

In a statement posted on social media, Ratwatte reflected on his journey from school rugby to wearing the national jersey, calling it “rugby has gifted me with lifelong friendships, invaluable lessons, and cherished memories that stay with me forever.”

Over a decade-long club career, he represented CR & FC and Kandy Sports Club, earning respect as a dynamic playmaker and leader.

Ratwatte expressed gratitude to his coaches, mentors, teammates, and fans, with special mention of Niranjan Ranasinghe for introducing him to New Zealand rugby and Neil Foote for shaping his early career. He also paid tribute to his family and wife, calling her “my greatest teammate.”

While stepping away from competitive rugby, Ratwatte hinted at staying connected to the sport through mentoring, coaching, or commentary.

“Rugby will always be a part of who I am,” he said, crediting the game for teaching him discipline, resilience, and humility.

Statement:

After nearly two decades of living and breathing rugby, I’ve made the hardest decision of my life to finally hang up my boots and bring this unforgettable chapter to an end, as it is time for me to focus on my family and legal career.

What began in 2006 representing Trinity College Under-12 has been an unforgettable journey, one that now concludes with the honor of captaining Sri Lanka. From my first school game to wearing the national jersey, rugby has gifted me with lifelong friendships, invaluable lessons, and cherished memories that stay with me forever.

Over a 10-year club career, I had the privilege of representing two incredible clubs, CR & FC and Kandy Sports Club. Playing alongside some phenomenal teammates, being guided by incredible coaches, and with the support of dedicated managers and club officials, I’ve been truly blessed. My heartfelt gratitude to all of you, your belief in me has shaped me both in my career and my character.

A special note of appreciation goes to Niranjan Ranasinghe, who opened the door for me to learn and experience New Zealand rugby. His wisdom, guidance and knowledge molded me and upskilled me to the player I am today. I also want to thank Neil Foote, my school rugby coach for believing in me early on and giving me the opportunity to play the game I love. Your influence went far beyond the field.

To my parents and sister, thank you for being my inspiration, for grounding me, and for loving me unconditionally, no matter the outcome on the field. Your support has been my strength, and your belief has carried me through every challenge.

To my wife, my greatest teammate of all, thank you for being my rock, my calm through every storm, and my biggest supporter. Your faith in me, especially in the moments I doubted myself gave me the will to keep going.

To my friends and family, thank you for always showing up no matter the circumstances. Your constant support, encouragement, and cheers over the years have given me the belief and the motivation to keep pushing forward.

Everything I’ve achieved is as much yours as it is mine

Finally, to the fans, thank you for standing by me through the highs and lows, through the wins that lifted us all and the losses that tested us. Your energy, your passion, and your unwavering pride in this game have made every moment on the field worthwhile. Every time I stepped onto the field, I felt your presence in the cheers, in the colors, in the belief you carried even when things didn’t go our way.

Though I step away as a player, I wish to stay involved in any way I can, whether it is through mentoring, coaching or even in the commentary box.

Rugby will always be a part of who I am. The game has taught me discipline, resilience and humility. It has shaped the man I am and for that, I will always be grateful.

— Tarinda Ratwatte - Sri Lanka Rugby Captain