Inter-Club Rugby Week 5

Friday, 12 December 2025 00:04 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

The Inter Club Rugby League 2025/2026 resumes today (12 December) after two-week pause, with Week 5 fixtures finally set to unfold following the postponement of Weeks 3 and 4 due to severe flooding across the country.

With the league restarting under improved conditions, teams return with renewed purpose as the competition regains full momentum. The spotlight will fall on the much-anticipated on the Colombo derby between CR and CH on 13 December, a clash expected to draw a very large crowd at Longdon Place. CR, President, Tikiri Ellepola and his committee had kept the gates opened free for the fans.

CR and FC are determined to extend their unbeaten run with skipper and former Science College player, Lasindu Karunathilake. The Longdon Place club have already notched two good wins, first a commanding 65/8 victory over Sri Lions, followed by a 19/0 lead against Army before the match was halted at halftime due to heavy rain in Panagoda.

Their squad receives a significant boost with two players, Samoan Alvarez Gasolo, who plies his trade in Australia, is set for his debut and is expected to bring immense physicality and attacking presence to CR’s backline. Joining him is young sensation Vishenka Silva, the 2025 Peterite skipper, whose pace and agility provide CR with fresh attacking firepower.

CH and FC, meanwhile, will bank on their youthful core in a bid to upset CR’s unbeaten streak. Skipper Janidu Dilshan, supported by His two deputies Danushka Malitha and Maliksha Perera, shoulders the responsibility of guiding the Havies outfit toward improved consistency. Their defensive organisation and discipline will be crucial against CR’s fast-paced and expansive approach.

Referee Ishanka Abeykoon will officiate this key encounter.

Week 5 opens on 12 December with Sri Lions hosting Army SC at Longdon Place. Sri Lions, captained by Ganidu Weerasinghe and supported by Aiden Fernando and Mohamed Nizran, are eager tobounce back after losses to CR and Havelocks. Army SC, led by Sudaraka Dikkumbura, remain in search of their first league win following narrow defeats to Air Force and CR, and enter the fixture with renewed determination.

Referee Nipuna Amarathunge will officiate.

The weekend’s action concludes on 13 December with unbeaten Sri Lanka Air Force meeting the Sailors in a clash carrying early implications for top-four Cup segment qualification. Air Force, showing structured play and strong cohesion, appear well positioned to maintain their flawless record. They have got in a national Samoan Under-20 player to their outfit.

Referee Gihan Yatawara will take charge.

The last game of week 5 will see Defending Champions, Kandy Sports Club host Police Sports Club at Nittawela Rugby Stadium. Kandy is expected to play their full team with Dinal Ekanayake and Danushka Ranjan expected to start this encounter.

Referee will be Kelum Sandaruwan.

All Week 5 matches will kick off at 3 p.m., ensuring fans a full slate of high-intensity rugby as the league returns to full flight.