Kandy SC out to continue winning streak

Tuesday, 1 April 2025 03:24 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

Unbeaten League Champions and hot favoured team to win the Clifford Cup knock out, Kandy SC will take on CH and FC in the first semi-final of the 2025 Clifford Cup knockout tournament today (1 April) at the Nittawela Rugby Stadium.

Kick-off is at 4 p.m. with the winners advancing to the final on 6 April.

Kandy SC, the most successful team in the century plus old, Clifford Cup knock out rugby history with 22 titles, will be determined to complete a perfect season by securing the rugby double. However, they will be without their regular captain, Srinath Sooriyabandara, and playmaker Tarinda Ratwatte, both side-lined due to injuries. In their absence, Tharindu Chathuranga will lead the team, with speedster. Danushka Ranjan coming back after recovering from his injury.

Despite missing key players, Kandy SC remains a formidable force, boasting a well-balanced squad with experience and depth. Zumri is likely to move to full back position with Soori missing out from the starting line-up.

CH on the other hand, will be eager to make an impact in the knockout stage. Though they missed out on the Cup segment in the league, they finished as Plate champions, demonstrating their ability to compete at a high level. Their slow starts to games cost them crucial wins, but they have shown the capability to turn matches around. CH will be led by Janidu Dilshan.

Referee Ishanka Abeykoon will officiate this encounter.