Tyrrell Jason Rajapakse, known as “Tikka,” and the captain of Trinity College’s last unbeaten rugby team in 1987, has made a striking statement of protest against what he describes as an injustice in the college’s rugby awards ceremony held recently. In a heartfelt open letter addressed To the rugby loving community of Trinity College and its fans and posted on his Facebook page, Rajapakse criticized the decision of not awarding Shan Althaf the prestigious Rugby Lion despite his extraordinary contributions to Trinity’s 2024 rugby season.
Althaf was instrumental in breaking Trinity’s decade-long drought to win back the Bradby Shield and was also named Man of the Match in both legs of the series.
His unforgettable 55-yard penalty kick, executed under immense pressure before a crowd of 30,000 spectators, will forever be cherished as a defining moment. Securing the decisive victory in the final move of the game, it has been hailed as one of the most remarkable achievements by a schoolboy rugby player, cementing his legacy in Trinity College’s storied rugby history.
Despite these accomplishments, the authorities at Trinity College chose not to bestow the coveted Rugby Lion upon Althaf, a decision that has outraged many old boys and supporters alike and raised concerns about fairness within Trinity’s rugby culture. Many believe his contributions warranted recognition, with critics pointing to the need for greater transparency and equity in the awards process.
In a dramatic act accompanying his public statement, Rajapakse is also seen in a video using a knife to remove the Rugby Lion crest from his blazer, symbolizing his protest. The gesture highlights the personal significance of the award, with Rajapakse stating it represented “blood, sweat, and tears” to achieve his coveted Trinity Lion.
Rajapakse’s emotional protest is further underscored by his legacy as the leader of Trinity’s legendary unbeaten 1987 rugby team, a squad that remains etched in the school’s history as one of its greatest.
“This is not just about an individual; it’s about fairness and the spirit of rugby,” Rajapakse stated in his post. “Together, we can eliminate unfairness and discrimination, making this world a better place.”
His statement has ignited widespread discussion on his Facebook page among Trinity College’s rugby community, alumni, and fans, drawing significant attention to longstanding concerns about fairness in recognizing player achievements. Rajapakse’s bold actions have become a rallying point for those advocating reform, calling on the school to critically evaluate its traditions and uphold the values of integrity, inclusivity, and fairness in the future.
