Police at the mercy of Kandy in a fortress

By Shamseer Jaleel

Kandy Sports Club, the unbeaten League and Clifford Cup champions, will step onto the field for the first time this season at their fortress, the Nittawela Rugby Stadium, when they meet Police Sports Club on Sunday.

The much-awaited fixture is expected to draw a passionate home crowd, with supporters reminded that the early 3 p.m kick-off leaves little time for a traditional post-lunch nap. 

Having already registered a convincing win over the Navy SC with a second-string lineup, Kandy SC once again demonstrated their extraordinary depth and class. 

Their ability to rotate players without compromising quality continues to underline their status as the most dominant force in domestic rugby. 

While Police SC enter the encounter searching for their first victory after two early setbacks, they will face a monumental challenge against a side renowned for ruthlessness. 

Led by the experienced Tharindu Chathuranga better known as Eheli, Kandy SC will field a strengthened starting XV featuring the return of dashing winger Dinal Ekanayake, whose pace and finishing ability bring renewed firepower to their backline. 

The champions are also set to welcome back star performers Danushka Ranjan and Shaahid Zumri in the coming weeks, further reinforcing an already formidable outfit stacked with match-winners.

Kandy SC’s depth remains unmatched, with the likes of Dahan Wickremarachchi, Heshan Jensen, Srinath Sooriyabandara, Dinal Ekanayake and Diluksha Dange providing skill, flair and tactical maturity. Their fluid attacking style, supported by a disciplined forward pack, continues to set the benchmark for excellence in Sri Lankan club rugby. Their full back former Kingswoodian, Hirusha Sampath returning from injury will occupy the full back position.

Since clinching their maiden league title in 1994, Kandy SC have dominated the local scene, lifting the trophy in the vast majority of seasons that followed. Their sustained success built on professionalism, player development, and strong club culture has cemented their legacy as Sri Lanka’s most successful rugby institution.