2025 Clifford Cup Knockout Rugby Tournament Kandy SC tame Sri Lions

 Kandy SC’s Shaahid Zumry making a powerful break

By Shamseer Jaleel 

Kandy SC showed their dominance in the first quarter-final of the 2025 Clifford Cup, outclassing Sri Lions SC by 41 points (7 tries, 3 conversions) to 8 points (1 try, 1 penalty) at the Nittawela Rugby Stadium yesterday.

At the short breather Kandy led 17/5.

Kandy made a few changes to the starting line up by giving Shaahid Zumry his full game time while former Trinity skipper Thisanga Disanayake made his debut for Kandy. Though Kandy was not at peak, they still dominated proceedings to notch seven tries. 

Meanwhile, Sri Lions did contain the champion outfit well but did not pose any major threat for Kandy SC.

Kandy SC’s ability to dominate possession, execute precise passing, and exploit defensive gaps made the difference. Their relentless attack, coupled with a rock-solid defence, proved too much for Sri Lions to handle.

With this resounding victory, Kandy SC advances to the semi-finals and play the winners of CH and FC vs Air Force game on April 1 at Nittawela.

For Kandy SC, Diluksha Dange, Kavindu Perera and Tarinda Ratwatte played well while Kevin Dixon and Nizran Mohamed played their hearts out for Sri Lions. Despite a spirited effort, Sri Lions found themselves overwhelmed by Kandy’s pace and physicality.

Kandy scored their tries through Tarinda Ratwatte (2), Diluksha Dange (2), Gayan Perera, Shaahid Zumry, and Wajid Faumy. Tarinda converted one and Zumri put over another.

Sri Lions’ try was scored by Dushmantha Priyadharshana while skipper Kevin Dixon put over a solitary penalty.

Referee: Charani Liyanage