CR clinch rugby double with Clifford Cup triumph

Monday, 9 March 2026 03:27 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

CR hooker Manilka Ruberu on an attacking move

Naveen Marasinghe on an attacking move

By Shamseer Jaleel

CR & FC completed a memorable domestic rugby double after defeating arch rivals Havelock Sports Club 12–10 in the Clifford Cup Knockout rugby 2026 final played under floodlights at Longdon Place on Saturday.

At the short breather, the home team led 6/3.

Having already secured the League title earlier in the season, the Red Shirts entered the knockout final aiming to crown a dominant campaign with the prestigious Clifford Cup. The encounter attracted a packed crowd as two of Colombo’s most traditional clubs battled for supremacy. Sadly, it was far below what the fans expected for an electrifying game, but both teams played a safe and back-foot game.

For CR, once again Thenuka Nanayakkara, their place kicker, was outstanding with his accuracy with the kick at goal, while Mursheed Doray, playing his 50th game for the Reds, was outstanding in his attack, splitting the Park Club defence all over. In attack, Pasindu Bandara too was threatening.

For Havies, once again Azmir Fajudeen and Abdullah Faiz were outstanding, with Jayathu Rajarathna making some electrifying moves that put the Reds all over the Park.

Havies drew first blood in the fourth minute when their fly-half Samuel Maduwantha successfully slotted a long-range 45-metre penalty following a late tackle, giving the Park Club an early 3–0 lead. CR gradually settled into the contest and responded through their reliable kicker Thenuka Nanayakkara, converting a penalty to level the scores. Minutes later, Nanayakkara struck again with another accurate kick after Havelock were penalised for offside.

With both teams displaying strong defensive discipline, the rest of the first half developed into a tense encounter. Despite several attacking movements, neither side managed to cross the try line. Both sides preferred to play safe by kicking into opposition territory but failing to use their three-quarter line to action.

After the turnaround, both sides fought hard for possession and territory. The forwards from both teams produced a bruising contest at the breakdown while the defences stood tall. CR eventually extended their advantage midway through the half when another infringement by Havelock allowed Nanayakkara to add his third penalty and stretch the lead to 9–3.

The hosts continued to apply pressure during the final quarter and were rewarded with yet another penalty which Nanayakkara successfully converted, pushing CR further ahead at 12–3 with time running out.

Havelock launched a late comeback with a powerful driving maul that resulted in a penalty try, reducing the deficit to two points. However, CR held their composure in the closing stages to seal a hard-fought 12–10 victory and complete a historic League and Clifford Cup double.

Referee from Japan Ibuki Tetsuka officiated this encounter.