CR has much to gain, Havies nothing to lose

By Shamseer Jaleel

Havelocks and CR and FC will clash in what has been down the ages as Sri Lanka’s rugby derby at Havelock Park today for the Colonel Eustace Matthysz Trophy with kick off scheduled for 3.30pm.

The rivalry of the two clubs has produced some of the most memorable clashes in domestic rugby and the Super Round of the inter club Premier League meeting promises to be no different as both sides look to assert early control in the title race. 

CR won the first leg this year convincingly.

Havelocks enter the Super Round after a mixed first round campaign under acting skipper Janidu Fernando following the unfortunate injury to Sandesh Jayawickrema. The Park Club lost to CR and Kandy Sports Club and drew against Navy SC. Despite the inconsistency, Havelocks possess immense firepower and depth, especially in the pack.

Jayathu Rajaratne and Chatura Dilshan have been outstanding in the three-quarter line, providing pace and penetration. Up front, Havelocks boast arguably the strongest forward unit in the league, with the experienced Abdullah Faiz and the powerful Azmir Fajudeen giving them dominance at the breakdown and set-pieces. 

The Red Shirts move out as table-toppers led by dynamic playmaker and former Science College star Lasindu Karunathilake.

The Longden Place Club have been the most consistent outfit so far. The likes of Mursheed Doray, Thenuka Nanayakkara and their influential Fijian No. 8, Enesi Waqanisau add cutting edge across the park, with the Fijian returning after a brief overseas trip in the UAE. With both teams eager to stamp authority in the Super Round, a fast, physical and tactical contest is on the cards. 

Adding to the occasion, a Saudi Arabian Asia Rugby Elite Panel referee, Aymen Jrill will officiate the match.