SriLanka, Nov. 15 -- Kandy Sports Club who lifted the Inter-club league rugby championship last season, as they have done on many occasions, are out to retain their title as the new season kicked off yesterday and will take on Navy Sports Club in their first game next week.

The most successful club in the history of Sri Lanka domestic rugby, Kandy SC will also have to put up with the retirement of some key players and among them are fly-half Nigel Ratwatte, centre Tarinda Ratwatte and prop forward Lasitha Attanagoda.

However, having won the league last season, it will be interesting to see how Kandy SC can withstand the pressure to defend the title.

"Yes, there is always pressure and we want to do well again but we don't really think ...