Sysco LABS has become the Strategic Partner of the Kandy Tuskers for the first Next XV Rugby League season. The new league aims to develop young rugby talent and create a clear path for players after school rugby.
Sri Lanka Rugby launched the Next XV with 140 Under-19 players across four franchises. The franchises are the Kandy Tuskers, Colombo Aces, Galle Lions, and Jaffna Bulls.
The league aims to bridge the gap between school rugby and the national high-performance set-up. It gives young players a chance to compete, improve their skills and earn opportunities to move forward.
A New Path for Young Rugby Players
The Next XV aims to reduce the loss of talented players after they leave school rugby.
The league gives these players a structured path into higher levels of the sport. The best performers can progress to Sri Lanka’s Under-19 High-Performance Program.
The new competition will also help build a longer-term pathway for rugby talent.
Sysco LABS said its partnership with the Kandy Tuskers reflects its focus on developing young talent and creating new opportunities.
Gian De Rose, Director – Brand & Communications at Sysco LABS, said the company sees a clear link between its approach to developing technology talent and the goals of the Next XV.
“Talent can exist anywhere, but for talent to become exceptional, people need opportunity, the right environment and a clear pathway to progress,” he said.
De Rose said the company chose to support the Kandy Tuskers because the team shares its focus on helping young people develop their potential.
He also pointed to qualities such as collaboration, resilience, discipline and strategy. He said these qualities are important in both rugby and high-performing teams.
Three-Year Partnership With Kandy Tuskers
The partnership between Sysco LABS and the Kandy Tuskers will run for three years.
The company will support the Kandy Tuskers as the team competes in the new Next XV league.
Kandy Tuskers Co-owner Tharanga Gunasekera said the franchise is pleased to take part in the first Next XV Rugby League.
“The Kandy Tuskers are delighted to be part of the inaugural Next XV Rugby League, taking rugby into an exciting new franchise era,” Gunasekera said.
He said the Tuskers aim to build a culture based on values, performance and pride. The team also aims to maintain Kandy’s strong rugby heritage.
The Tuskers have a professional coaching unit led by award-winning coach Fazil Marija.
Gunasekera said the team wants to give players a platform to maximise their potential and progress towards representing Sri Lanka.
The inaugural Next XV season kicked off on 19 September 2026.
The Kandy Tuskers, Colombo Aces, Galle Lions and Jaffna Bulls are competing for the first Next XV championship.
MOU & Partnership Sports Update
Last modified: September 23, 2026
