Kandy SC clinch unbeaten rugby double

Kandy Sports Club, the undisputed kings of Sri Lankan club rugby, completed an extraordinary 2024/25 season by clinching both the League and Clifford Cup knockout

 titles while remaining unbeaten in all their 14 matches – a feat that has further cemented their legendary status in the island's rugby history.

Under the calm and tactical leadership of Sooriyabandara, affectionately known as “Soori”, Kandy SC navigated the league season with precision and composure. The team played 11 league matches and came out on top in all of them, dominating every opponent with flair and determination.

Their dominance continued into the Clifford Cup knockout stage, where they turned up the intensity. In the quarter-finals, they made light work of Sri Lanka Lions, followed by a commanding performance against CH and FC in the semis. The grand finale saw them narrowly edge out CR and FC in a thrilling and action-packed match that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats.

Kandy SC double triumph was not just about silverware it was about a legacy reborn. This club, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, was founded in 1875 but struggled to claim any major trophies until their maiden Clifford Cup win in 1992. That victory marked the beginning of an era that would reshape club rugby in Sri Lanka.

The club resurgence truly began in 1992 when a major shift occurred. Kandy-born players, who had previously played for Colombo clubs, returned home. Malik Samarawickrema, the former Royal College scrum-half and then-President of the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union, played a pivotal role in this revival.

Malik, having pulled out of CR due to a leadership dispute between Inthi Marikar and Lasitha Gunaratne, decided to take a bold step. The captaincy was given to Lasitha, prompting Malik to invest his time and business efforts in Kandy, bringing with him a vision to build a rugby powerhouse in the hills.

His efforts extended beyond the field. He offered employment opportunities and convinced several top players to relocate. Among them were Red Shirts Shyam Sideek and Ruzvi Suhayb, who were joined by Inthi, L.V. Ekanayake, and Priyantha. Under the leadership of Maurice Joachim, Kandy lifted the Clifford Cup in 1992 and secured their first league title in 1994 under Indrajith Bandaranayake.

Since that turning point, winning became a tradition for Kandy SC. From 1992 onwards, they have claimed a staggering 24 league titles and 23 Clifford Cup championships, missing out on the knockouts only twice in over three decades of participation. KSC President Mahesh Weerasinghe and hardworking Secretary Sujeewa Liyanage along with Head Coach Fazil and his support staff did the hard yards not only winning both the trophies but also to remain unbeaten in their season was extraordinary. 

This year’s triumph was particularly sweet. The team, a blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting young talent, executed their strategy flawlessly. Soori’s leadership was complemented by the brilliance of Tari, Ranjan, Heshan, Kavindu, Zumri and Dange in the backline, who dazzled fans with speed and creativity.

Among the younger crop, Dinal and Asiri stood out with their relentless energy and commitment, while Zumri had a sensational debut season, quickly becoming a fan favourite with his fearless runs and impressive work rate.

The forwards were equally relentless. Thilina, Dahan, and Kenula formed the backbone of the pack, displaying grit in every ruck and set-piece. Their work ethic and physical dominance gave Kandy SC the platform to control games and dictate terms.

What makes this season’s double even more remarkable is the manner in which Kandy SC adapted to challenges. Whether it was high-altitude pressure at home or hostile crowds in Colombo, they played with discipline and pride in the jersey.

Beyond the field, the support of the Kandy faithful played an integral role. The club’s 150th anniversary celebrations were amplified by their double success, turning every game into a festival of passion and pride.

Kandy SC’s legacy is now one of resilience, tradition, and continuous excellence. From the hills of the Central Province, they have risen to become the heart of Sri Lankan rugby a symbol of how unity, vision, and local pride can transform a club in to winning outfit.

Kandy SC squad

Malith Wijesundara, Kenula Hettiarachchi, Milan Weerasinghe , Thilina Bandara, Chathura Soysa, Wawala Panditha, Tharinda Chathuranga, Dahan Wickramarachchi, Heshan Jansen, Nigel Ratwatte, Dinal Ekanayake, Diluksha Dange , Danushka Ranjan, Kavindu Perera , Srinath Sooriyabandara (Capt), Dilshad Fareed, Lasitha Attanagoda, Akil Mohamed, Wajid Faumy, Nalan Premnath, Suranga Tennakoon, Asiri Senevirathne, Shaahid Zumri, Viraj Kolombaarchchi, Thisanga Dissanayake and Sanushka Abeywickrama

• Head Coach: Fazil Marija 
• Asst. Coach: Henry Terrence
•  Team Manager : Kapila Silva
•  Trainer: Tharaka Algama
•  Masseur: Mobby Perera 
• Physio: Lakshitha Senevirathne 
• Administration Manager: Asela Wickremasinghe (SJ)