KANDY SC’S RUGBY DYNASTY UNMATCHED

Kandy Sports Club, Sri Lanka’s most decorated rugby club, once again etched their name in the annals of local rugby history by clinching the rugby double this year. Under the masterful guidance of their Head Coach Fazil Marija, widely regarded as one of the best coaches in the country, Kandy SC continued its remarkable reign, winning the league title for the 24th time in the past 30 years, and 23rd Clifford Cup since 1992. It was yet another powerful statement from a club that has refused to relinquish its stronghold over the domestic scene.

- By SHAMSEER JALEEL

The club started its journey back in 1875 and till 1991 never won a single trophy. The year 1992 was the commencement of the re-birth of the club.

Marija’s coaching influence has been instrumental. A legendary No. 10 himself, he transitioned seamlessly into coaching, infusing the team with tactical brilliance, unmatched fitness standards, and a never-say-die spirit. His leadership, tactical acumen, and deep understanding of the game have become the cornerstone of Kandy’s recent success.

His ability to evolve the team’s playing style while retaining their trademark flair has solidified his place as arguably the finest rugby mind in the country today. Much of Kandy’s success this season can also be attributed to the Specialist Forward Coach Terrence Henry, who worked with the forwards and transformed them into a dominant unit. Week after week, Kandy’s pack steamrolled their opposition, setting the platform for their backline to flourish. The scrummaging was at its peak, the line-out pressure all bore Henry’s stamp making Kandy’s forwards as fearsome as their speedy backs.

Tharaka Algama did his part as one of the best Trainers being awarded as the National Trainers for the Malaysia and New Zealand tours. Kapila Silva, the former Isipathana and Kandy SC player, managed the boys’ expectations very nicely and all the lads worked around him with full support and cooperation.

The season saw the emergence of exciting young talents who stepped up and delivered under pressure. Among them, Dinal Ekanayake stood out with consistently excellent performances, showing maturity beyond his years.

Alongside him, youngsters like Dilshan Weerasinghe, Kemika Hettiarachchi, Wenuka Panditha, Sheshan Silva, Dinal Soyza, Milan Weerasinghe, and Chathura Soyza impressed with their energy, skill, and commitment, proving that the future of Kandy SC remains in safe hands.