Charles Wijewardena charity rugby match today

RUGBY: Several star players will be seen in action when the combined CR-Police-Air Force scrum down with a star-studded Kandy Sports Club team in a charity rugby match to be played at Nittawela today.

The match is organised in honour of the late Charles Wijewardena who died under tragic circumstances when he was on duty in the North last year.

Police Rugby Committee is organising the charity rugby match with the assistance of Kandy Sports Club, Air Force and CR & FC.

The Maharajah Organisation has allocated free air time to telecast this encounter on Sirasa TV and also carry out a propaganda programme to make this event a success.

All arrangements have been finalised for the much looked forward to game. Central Province DIG Nimal Mediwaka, officials of the Kandy SC and former SLRFU President Malik Samarawickrema, have put a lot of effort to make this event a success.

Large crowds are expected to watch this match and Kandy Sports Club have agreed to donate Rs. one million to the Charles Wijewardena family as a token of appreciation of late Wijewardena's contribution to Sri Lanka Rugby.

All proceeds out of this event will also be donated to the Wijewardena family.

Better known as `Mr. Reliable' and `King Charlie' during his day, the late Wijewardena is one of the finest place kickers that Sri Lanka has ever produced.

This unassuming, simple and humble officer was brutally murdered in Inuvil, Jaffna, by the LTTE, whilst performing his official duties.

A member of the Police Rugby Committee said they are grateful to all those who have contributed for this worthy cause from the inception of this programme and we are looking forward to see all Charles Wijewardena and Sri Lankan Rugby fans to be present at Nittawela for a worthy cause.

(D.W.)