Nittawela fortress awaits as Kandy chase final berth in last home game today

Tuesday, 3 March 2026 04:13 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Ibuki Tetsuka

Defending champions Kandy Sports Club will clash with Havelock Sports Club in the second semi-final of the Clifford Cup today (3 March) at Nittawela Rugby Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 4.00 p.m., in what promises to be a fiercely contested knockout encounter.

Kandy head into the match determined to keep their title defence alive and end the season on a triumphant note. The home side will be encouraged by the return of several key players who had been sidelined through injury. Captain Tharindu Chaturanga leads a strengthened lineup, with Kavindu Perera, Dinal Ekanayake both returning to bolster both structure and attacking fluency. Their presence significantly enhances Kandy’s balance across the park.

The hill capital club secured their semi-final berth with 27–15 victory over Army Sports Club in the quarter-finals, displaying discipline, control and effective finishing when it mattered most without 8 of their senior players.

Havelocks, led by Janidu Fernando, enter the contest with confidence and momentum. The Park Club boasts a powerful pack featuring Azmir Fajudeen and Abdullah Faiz, while Dilshara Kodagoda and Jayathu Rajarathne provide strength and pace in the three-quarters. Their 29–10 quarter-final triumph over Police Sports Club highlighted their ability to dominate physically and capitalise on scoring opportunities under pressure.

Kandy may hold a slight edge with home advantage at Nittawela, a venue renowned for its passionate support and challenging conditions for visiting teams. The familiar surroundings could play a decisive role in a tightly balanced contest. This will be probably the last home encounter for the Hill Capital outfit unless CR ends on the wrong side of the books.

Adding international prestige, the match will be officiated by a referee from Japan, Ebuki Tetsuiya, ensuring high technical standards. With a place in the final at stake, a fast, physical and high-quality battle is expected between two proud clubs but likely in front of an empty stands as today is a working day. (SJ)

Japanese referee to blow at Clifford Cup

Japanese referee Ibuki Tetsuka will officiate one of the semi-finals and the knock out final of the ongoing Clifford Cup rugby tournament.

Ibuki arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday and will blow the Kandy Sports Club vs. Havies encounter at the Nittawela Rugby Stadium today. Ibuki will also officiate the final on 7 March in Colombo or Kandy.

Ibuki has officiated in the Asian Games, Asia Rugby Sevens Series, Asia Rugby Championship, Tokyo 2020 IGJ, World Rugby Sevens Series and Japan Rugby League one. He is also in the Asia Rugby Elite Referees Panel. (SJ)