Karunasena, ironically, passed away on his birthday – September 26, and his remains, according to his wishes, was handed to the Medical College.

A former Isipathana MV prop forward, Karunasena was a popular figure at CH where he helped the club and several players financially. He was a successful businessman, one of the pioneers to import sprats from Thailand to this country.

Under Karunasena’s leadership CH won the Clifford Cup for the first time under a Sri Lankan in 1982. That year CH was voted the Observer-Milo Most Popular Rugby Club.

After a short stint with CH, Karunasena joined Havelocks SC and captained them in 1988. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.