Clifford Cup Knockout Rugby Tournament Havelocks face acid Army test

By Shamseer Jaleel

The final quarter-final of the 2025 Clifford Cup Knockout Rugby Tournament will see second-placed Havelock SC take on Army SC at Havelock Park today. With a place in the semi-finals on the line, Havies will be aiming for a dominant performance to keep their title hopes alive.

Kick-off is at 4.00 p.m.

Havelock SC enjoyed a strong league campaign, finishing second behind Kandy SC. Led by Faiz Abdullah, the Park Club has been consistent throughout the season and will be favourites to advance to the semi-finals but not before going through some tough times with the gutsy Soldiers. 

The Park Club’s well-structured game, bolstered by key players like Jayathu Rajarathna, Sandesh Jayawickrema and Azmir Fajudeen should give them the edge in this encounter.

Army SC, meanwhile, has had a mixed season. Despite flashes of brilliance, inconsistency has plagued Shamly Nawaz and his team, making it difficult for them to challenge the top teams. However, in knockout rugby, anything is possible, and Army will be looking to deliver a much-improved performance to trouble the Havies. 

Led by towering second rower, Nalaka Maduranga who had an outstanding season well supported by Buddi Srimantha, Suboda Samarakoon and Kasun Bandara, the soldiers are all out to give a good account of themselves in this do-or-die encounter.

While Havelock SC is expected to progress, Army SC will be determined to put up a fight and challenge the odds. With the semi-finals approaching, the Park Club will look to maintain their form and build momentum for the tougher battles ahead.

Kelum Sandaruwan is the referee.