Dhanushka Ranjan and Ekanayake back in Kandy SC fold

By Shamseer Jaleel

With the return of Kandy SC players Dhanushka Ranjan and Dinal Ekanayake, the third week of the InterClub Rugby League promises intense action as the defending champions continue their title defence while CR and FC look determined to push for the championship.
With crucial clashes lined up for tomorrow and Sunday, the league picture is expected to take a clearer shape by the end of the week.
Unbeaten Havelock SC will lock horns with Army SC on Saturday at Havelock Park. Led by former Peterite, Sandesh Jayawickrema, Havies have had mixed fortunes opening with a 31- 31 draw against Navy SC before producing a commanding second-half rally to beat Sri Lions 42/11. Despite remaining unbeaten, Havelocks still appear slightly unsettled, making this a vital fixture to regain rhythm and confidence. Samuel Maduwantha is in peak form with his kicking duties for the Park Club will be a huge bonus for them.
Army SC, meanwhile, enter the game after two tough outings where they were edged out by Air Force 19/24 and shut out 0/19 by CR in a rain-affected contest. They will be keen to bounce back, though Havies at home will be a difficult hurdle.
On Sunday evening at Police Park, Police SC will host CR and FC. Police SC have fallen short in both games, losing 5/29 to CH and 17/26 to Air Force.
CR, on the other hand, look sharp and confident after back-to-back wins and the Reds will be eager to keep their unbeaten record alive as they chase Kandy SC for the top spot.
On Saturday all eyes will be on defending champions Kandy SC, who make their second trip to Colombo to face Sri Lions at Longden Place. Kandy SC were dominant in their opener, demolishing Navy SC and will further strengthen their backline with the return of Dhanushka Ranjan and Dinal Ekanayake.
They will be unstoppable and favoured to return home with a bonuspoint win plus some good exposure for the young blood forwards looked after by Sanushka Abeywickrema in his debut season as their forwards coach while Fazil Marija is the head coach of the champion outfit. The week concludes with CH and FC travelling to Welisara to meet Navy SC on Sunday. CH remain unbeaten, while Navy SC after two difficult outings are still searching for momentum. Despite the challenge, CH will be favourites, but Navy SC at home can never be discounted.