Higher ranked teams earn ‘home’ advantage Clifford Cup in Super 16 format

 Action from the league match between Kandy SC and CR and FC at Nittawela   

By Allaam Ousman   

The Clifford Cup Knockout Rugby Tournament will follow an internationally recognised format, similar to the Super 16 structure, where higher-ranked teams are rewarded with home advantage based on their league standings.  

“Knockout matches will be played at the home grounds of the highest-ranked team, based on their standings after the league. This system prioritises performance and is an internationally accepted format, even followed in the Super 16 tournament,” says Tournament Committee Chairman of Sri Lanka Rugby, Ravi Wijenathan.   

“For example, if the tournament has eight teams, the highest-ranked team will get the home advantage. The first-ranked team will host their quarter-final match. If they win, they will also host the semi-final. If they win the semi-final, they will have the right to host the final as well. The same principle applies to the other teams, depending on their rankings,” he explained.   

This format ensures that teams earn their advantage based on their performances throughout the season. “Kandy SC, for instance, has earned their standing by winning all their matches and securing the number one spot. Likewise, other teams have earned their positions in the rankings,” Wijenathan stated.   

He also highlighted the scenario where lower-ranked teams make it to the final. “If an eighth-ranked team like Sri Lions or Army reaches the final, the match will be hosted by the higher-ranked team. The standings determine the venue at every stage,” he pointed out.   

This system not only rewards consistency but also aligns with global rugby tournament structures, ensuring fairness and competitiveness throughout the knockout stage, he added.   

The Clifford Cup knockout tournament is expected to commence on March 23. The SLR league rugby championship will conclude this weekend. Kandy SC have been crowned champions with one more match to play followed by Havelocks, CR and FC, Air Force in the Cup segment while the four teams in the Plate segment are CH and FC, Police, Army and Sri Lions.