Home advantage under lights as CR hold the edge; Kandy arrive with nothing to lose

Saturday, 21 February 2026 00:13 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

The stage is set for a thrilling climax to the Inter-Club Rugby League 2025/2026 season as defending champions, Kandy Sports Club take on CR and FC in a winner-takes-all showdown at Longdon Place today .

The match, played under lights at 7.00 p.m. will decide the league champion in what is effectively a knockout contest within the League competition.

A packed crowd expected to witness the season’s most decisive encounter.

CR and FC enter the final with a clear advantage, playing on their home ground at Longdon Place and under familiar conditions. The Reds have been one of the most consistent teams this season and the support of their home crowd combined with the night setting could play a significant role in shaping the contest.

Led by the determined Lasindu Karunathilake, CR have displayed cohesion and structure throughout the campaign. With strong support from Thenuka Nanayakkara, Mursheed Doray and Manilka Ruberu, the Longdon Place outfit has built momentum at the right time despite a couple of setbacks against CH and Havelocks.

Stability has been one of CR’s greatest strengths this season. They are expected to field the same combination that carried them through the league, a factor that adds confidence and continuity heading into the decisive encounter.

Head coach Dushantha Lewke, who is in his final season before relocating to the Middle East, will be eager to conclude his tenure with silverware. Assisted by forwards coach Sohiru Anthony and team manager Rohan Chinthaka, the Reds appear well-prepared for the challenge ahead.

Kandy SC, meanwhile, come into the final as underdogs, a rare position for a club that has dominated Sri Lankan rugby for more than three decades. Yet that tag may work in their favour, as they enter the contest with less pressure and plenty to gain.

Skipper Tharindu Chathuranga will once again lead the charge for the Hill Capital side, supported by experienced campaigners Thilina Bandara and Dahan Wickremarachchi. Scrum-half Heshan Jensen’s ability to control the pace of the game will be crucial for Kandy’s chances.

The return of Diluksha Dange strengthens their back division alongside Kavindu Perera, Dinal Ekanayake, Akash Madushanka and Shaahid Zumri. With fullback Hirusha Sampath doubtful due to injury, youngster Yuvan Pathirana could be handed an opportunity on the big stage. Soori is nursing an injury and will be replaced by Zumri.

Asian elite panel referee from Hong Kong China Craig Chan will officiate this vital encounter.