The NEXT XV Rugby tournament reaches a decisive third week, with Kandy Tuskers and Colombo Aces needing bonus-point wins to keep alive their hopes of reaching the Cup final.
Galle Lions currently lead the standings, followed by Jaffna Bulls, Colombo Aces and Kandy Tuskers.
At 6 p.m., Kandy Tuskers will meet Jaffna Bulls, with Pawan Thiranagama tipped to lead the Kandy side. Minula Yaddehige, Afham Abdeen and Nethshan Manthusha are among their key players.
Jaffna, led by Mikayle Karunaratne, have a strong combination, including Trinity scrum-half Udan Wijekoon, whose game-reading ability makes him a vital link in their attack. Hamza Abdeen and Nimantha Sandeepa add further strength to the Bulls’ starting XV.
Nipuna Amarathunge will referee the opening encounter.
The 8 p.m. clash between Colombo Aces and Galle Lions is equally important, particularly for Colombo, who need a bonus-point victory to remain in contention.
Colombo will be captained by No. 8 Shaakib Zumri, who has impressed with his direct and composed approach. Udan Bulathsinghalage and Mohamed Fawaz are also expected to play important roles.
League leaders Galle Lions will be led by Shenuka Perera, with schoolmate Jamal Wahab and Abdul Malik among their notable players.
Gihan Yatawara will referee the second match.