Major comeback makes this season special, says Kandy Coach Sean Wijesinghe

By Shamseer Jaleel

Kandy Sports Club continued their dominance in the local rugby arena when they kept both the league title and Clifford Cup safely in their possession. 

The club was reborn in 1992, going on to secure a string of trophies afterwards. Before this period, the club, which has been around for more than a century, never won a single trophy.

Kandy skipper Roshan Weeraratne receiving the Clifford Cup

This year’s double for Kandy is being especially savoured by their head coach former Trinitian, Sean Wijesinghe, who said: “This was no cakewalk. We lost two games in the first round to Air Force and Navy. We made a major comeback. We are very happy as we have only one injury in the entire pool so that’s great news for national rugby with the Sevens and Fifteens tournament in Asia which will kick off early this month.” 

“This is one of the finest seasons for Kandy. We dished out some quality rugby although losing two games. We had great years of winning records but this year was so special because we made a strong comeback. It was sheer hard work and commitment by the players and discipline was kept at a peak by both the juniors as well as the senior guys. This season’s competition was tough and the gap between teams was so narrow and the top 4-5 teams played quality rugby which was a challenge for Kandy. 

“We needed to motivate and get the best from all players. We treated all fairly and almost all the players got chances to play in the middle rather than warming the bench. This is one of the reasons many players like to come to Kandy. Our professional approach towards the game is at another level. We came back very strongly in the latter rounds and playing in Nittawela in front of our loyal supporters is always a blessing. None of the other clubs have such a huge following for the game. You walk on the street and they talk about rugby. Rugby is a religion in Kandy. They love the game madly and their support is a huge strength for us and most of them are very knowledgeable,” he stated.

Double for Kandy SC once more

“I witnessed a good team effort, led by a desire to win. Many leadership skills were sharpened and various responsibilities were delegated by the skipper and the end results were very positive. Every single one of them believed in each other till the end and that’s the secret that kept Kandy on top.” 

Sean thanked all his mentors, Laga, Simpkin and Taylor, for their guidance, plus the support of the club’s rugby committee, Lasantha, Kapila, Nalaka and Saliya. 

“Nothing would have been possible if not for the support of Malik Samarawickrama, who showed us the correct path. Last but not least the main sponsors Cargills and co-sponsors Etisalat and Singer whose support was vital for us.”