LONGDEN PLACE, Colombo, November 15 (ePRESS) – Ceylonese Rugby and Football Club (CR and FC), the historic home of Sri Lankan rugby and one of the top favourites for this year’s Maliban SLR A Division Inter-Club League and Knockout titles, received a powerful boost when Vantage, the flagship clothing brand of Ebony Holdings, stepped in as the main sponsor for the 2025–2026 season. The official jersey and sponsorship presentation was held on Wednesday night at Longden Place.
Vantage also unveiled 250 limited-edition premier shirts exclusively for CR and FC members. The launch celebrated the club’s star-studded line-up, led by Sri Lanka number eight and CR and FC captain Lasindu Karunathilake, along with several other key players expected to make a strong impact this season.
The grand event drew a large gathering of rugby supporters and former greats. Among them was CR and FC President Tikiri Ellepola, himself a former Trinity College skipper and CR and FC number eight. Also present were Sri Lanka Rugby President Pavithra Fernando (2004–2006) and Deputy President Shanitha Fernando (1994), both former captains of CR and FC. Ellepola presented special mementos to the two SLR leaders in appreciation of their long-standing service to the club.
Ellepola, who guided CR and FC to break a 26-year League title drought in 2023 and 2024 through his strong and steady leadership, expressed high confidence for the coming season.
“We hope to win both the League and Knockout titles this year,” he said, warmly thanking all sponsors, including Vantage, for their continued support. He also revealed the club’s plan to host home matches under lights from 6.30 pm.
Ebony Holdings, founded two decades ago, has grown from a small business into one of Sri Lanka’s leading clothing manufacturers and distributors. Its flagship brand, Vantage, has become a household name, known for modern style, high-quality craftsmanship, and confidence in contemporary men’s fashion.
Speaking at the ceremony, Umar Rasmy, Deputy Director of Ebony Holdings, said, “Rugby is a sport built on courage, unity, and endurance—values that resonate strongly with us as a brand. Our partnership with CR and FC is about energizing the game, empowering players to perform with pride, and uplifting rugby in Sri Lanka.”
CR and FC also enjoy support from several co-sponsors, including Asia Security Group, TVS Lanka, Sport Nutrition Hub, Fintrex Finance, YES FM 101, Multilac, and First Capital. All partners share the same vision of strengthening Sri Lankan rugby and guiding CR and FC toward another memorable season.
