Titans collide at Nittawela as Kandy and CR battle for League

Saturday, 10 January 2026 00:09 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Kandy SC remains the only unbeaten team so far

The Inter-Club Rugby League 2025/26 reaches a pivotal stage when defending champions and unbeaten Kandy Sports Club face arch-rivals CR & FC in a blockbuster encounter at the Nittawela Rugby Stadium tomorrow.

Kick-off is at 3:45 p.m.

A capacity crowd is expected in Kandy, where the champions traditionally draw the largest and most passionate supporter base in domestic rugby. Although Kandy have not consistently operated at full throttle in recent matches, their formidable home record built over three decades continues to make Nittawela one of the toughest venues for visiting teams.

Skipper Tharindu Chathuranga leads a dangerous backline packed with pace and attacking intent. The three-quarter combination of Dhanushka Ranjan, Diluksha Dange, Dinal Ekanayake, and Kavindu Perera has regularly tested opposition defences with speed and sharp execution. Much focus will be on Akash Madushanka, who will be eager to deliver a defining performance, while veteran Soori has been among Kandy’s most reliable contributors, providing leadership and momentum with his vast club experience.

Up front, Kandy’s forwards will aim to assert early dominance. Dilshan Fareed at hooker, alongside Thilina Bandara and Dahan Wickramarachchi, have been tireless at the breakdown and in contact. The coordination of scrum-half Heshan Jansen had gelled the team tightly. The possible late introduction of former Kandy and national player Buwaneka Udangamuwa could further bolster their impact and composure in the closing stages.

CR & FC arrive in Nittawela with confidence, having won all their matches except for a narrow loss to CH. Led by Lasindu Karunathilake, the Reds have impressed with their structure, discipline, and tactical awareness. Key performers such as Thenuka Nanayakkara, Chamod Muthunayake, and Murshid Doray have been consistently influential, with Nanayakkara’s game management and goal-kicking giving CR a notable edge.

While Kandy’s home advantage and depth make them slight favourites, CR’s superior kicking accuracy could prove decisive if the contest becomes penalty-driven. With pride, momentum, and League supremacy at stake, all signs point to a high-intensity encounter worthy of its heavyweight billing.

Referee Raveen Alexander will officiate. (SJ)