Umesha's going forward with Jesus

Former Sri Lanka international rugby player Umesha Madushan has revealed how faith carried him through injury, international competition and a new life in England.

The powerful flanker had dreamed of representing his country since childhood.

That ambition became reality in May 2019 when he was selected for Sri Lanka’s 26-man squad for the Asia Rugby Championship Division One tournament in Chinese Taipei.

Madushan scored a try against the Philippines on 29 May, although the Tuskers were beaten 39–22.

“Pulling on the national jersey was one of the proudest moments of my life,” he said. “It meant everything to me.”

But the six-foot-plus forward believes his greatest victories have come through trusting Jesus.

“Throughout my life the Lord has been with me and seen me through the tough times,” he said.

“Every time I prayed for healing when I was injured, somehow God turned up. I thank God for his faithfulness.”

Madushan met his wife Shanika while training at a sports ground in Sri Lanka.

He moved to England in 2023 to support her during her studies and the couple married in 2025.

They now worship at New Springs City Church in Loughborough, where Madushan was baptised.

Although imposing on the pitch, he is known at church as a softly spoken “gentle giant”.

“New Springs is a vibrant place – full of faith, fun and life,” he said. “You are made to feel that you belong.”

Now his passion stretches far beyond rugby.

“I want everyone to know about Jesus,” he said. “They can have a personal relationship with him – and he has a purpose and plan for their lives.”

More faith-based sports stories…