Table Toppers CR may have a match

By: Shamseer Jaleel

Feb.20 (Mirror Sports) - The stage is set for a pulsating finale to the domestic season as the Inter-Club Rugby League 2025/2026 reaches its grand climax under lights at Longdon Place tomorrow when defending champions, Kandy Sports Club lock horns with CR and FC the League toppers in what is being touted as a final inside the League. Kick-off is scheduled for 7 pm. In a move by Sri Lanka Rugby, points difference accumulated during the league phase will not come into play.

Only the result of this decisive encounter will determine the 2025/26 champions, adding an extra layer of intensity of a most anticipated fixture of the season. Kandy SC, long regarded as the powerhouse of Sri Lankan club rugby, endured an uncharacteristically inconsistent campaign.

Under the leadership of the rock-solid Tharindu Chathuranga, they suffered two defeats to CR & FC and were held to two draws by CH & FC, results that dented their aura of invincibility built over three decades of dominance. One of the drawn games against CH was because of a disallowed try for Kandy that forced the match to end in a draw.

Despite their pedigree, Kandy SC enter the final as underdogs. With expectations relatively tempered compared to previous seasons, they carry less pressure into this contest a factor that could prove dangerous for their Colombo rivals.

The defending champions will lean heavily on skipper Chathuranga’s experience and composure. Thilina Bandara and Dahan Wickremarachchi remain central to their tactical execution, while scrum-half Heshan Jansen’s control at the base will be pivotal in dictating tempo and territory.

The return of Diluksha Dange strengthens the three-quarter line, with Kavindu Perera, Dinal Ekanayake, Akash Madushanka, Shaahid Zumriforming a reliable defence and lightning fast on attack.

Full-back, Hirusha Sampath looks a doubtful starter which could give Yuvan Pathirana his debut for the up country club. Zumri is expected to steer the backline at fly-half, while former Kingswoodian youngster, Revin Bauwdeen may be introduced later to handle tactical kicking duties.

Legend and coach Fazil Marija, eager to conclude the league campaign on a triumphant note, adds invaluable leadership and big-match temperament. 

Kandy’s preparations have been meticulous. Forwards coach Sanushka Abeywickrema has worked tirelessly to sharpen their set-piece efficiency, while team manager Kapila Silva has ensured the squad remains focused.

With the Clifford Cup knockout competition still ahead at Nittawela, Kandy’s players are determined to defend both crowns. CR and FC, meanwhile, have displayed consistency and played cohesively throughout the league. 

Led by the uncompromising Lasindu Karunathilake, the Longden Place outfit has built momentum at the right time and enters the finale with confidence. Lasindu is ably supported by Thenuka Nanayakkara, Mursheed Doray and Manilka Ruberu, forming a core group that blends physicality with tactical intelligence.

The Red Shirts have remained largely unchanged this season, a quality to the stability within their ranks. They lost out to CH and Havelocks, won the rest of the battles and playing at home and under lights gives them a major advantage.

They retain the same side. Head coach Dushantha Lewke, in his final season before relocating to the Middle East, will be eager to sign off with silverware. His structured, disciplined approach has transformed CR into genuine title contenders.

The team management, featuring a former Isipathana fly-half at the helm, has fostered unity and belief within the squad. They will see the cool Sohiru Anthony as their Forwards coach while Rohan Chinthaka manages the outfit.

With Hong Kong’s Craig Chan appointed as the referee, neutrality and professionalism are assured. 

By: Sandun Kodithuwakku