Staff Reporter
KANDY, SRI LANKA: Qatar’s Hurricane Storm Touch Rugby Club lived up to its name in spectacular fashion, completing an undefeated campaign to claim the championship title at the Paradise Touch Rugby Tournament 2026 at Nittawela Rugby Ground in Kandy, Sri Lanka, which was held recently.
Competing in the Mixed Division, the Hurricanes produced a dominant tournament performance, combining youthful energy, experienced veterans, and international talent to remain unbeaten throughout the competition.
The squad is made up of expatriates living in Qatar who share a relentless passion for rugby and touch rugby. Established in 2012, the club is managed by an expat himself, Hans Thomasz. Hurricane Storm has brought together players from Qatar, creating a diverse and united team under its distinctive black-and-yellow banner.
“Hurricane Storm is one of Qatar’s leading clubs for hosting and participating in touch rugby events,” Hans said. “Over the years, we have had players from all walks of life, bringing different talents and experiences to the team. We are proud of our history and our ability to attract extremely talented players and coaches, and this tournament was no different.”
Coached by Damian Ruatara, the Hurricanes entered the tournament well prepared, and their on-field performance proved it. After going unbeaten through their first five matches, the team carried that momentum into the Semifinals and to the all-important championship final.
The final between Kandy Touch Rugby Club and Qatar’s Hurricane Storm Touch Rugby Club proved to be a fitting conclusion to an outstanding tournament that ended in a nail-biting thriller. With the match going into extra time, the Hurricanes held their nerve and secured the decisive victory, lifting the championship trophy and completing their unbeaten run.
“Our team was a great mix of young blood and talented veterans, and we came into the tournament well prepared,” Hans said. “Being unbeaten after 7 matches and then winning the final in extra time confirmed what we already knew — the Hurricanes came to showcase some high-quality touch rugby.”
As the Hurricanes celebrated their championship triumph in Kandy, Hans couldn't resist one final line: “We definitely caused a storm in Paradise!”
Players:
Abdul Fahad(C) • Lauren Mudgway • Safaa Tedjini • Yasmine Dehbi • Avinash Fernando • Tan Aik Wei Jason • Simark Samidon • Shamal Samidon • Pieter Cronje • Luqmaan Sirkhotte • Rusith Thamodya • Sashi Kanth
Coaches & Management
Damian Ruatara • Intikam Samidon • Hans Thomasz