The turbulent saga of Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) appears to be nearing a resolution as the legal battle between the Sri Lanka Rugby Provincial Unions and the Ministry of Sports heads to its final hearing in the Court of Appeal tomorrow. Reports suggest a settlement has been reached, paving the way for SLR to regain control of rugby’s administration and restore stability to the sport. This significant step ends years of chaos, bringing normalcy back to the country’s second-most popular sport.
A Return to Normalcy
Under the guidance of newly appointed Minister of Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage, the Ministry of Sports has taken decisive action to resolve the crisis. A letter issued by the Ministry’s Secretary, A.H.M.U. Aruna Bandara, to the Attorney General signaled the government’s support for SLR’s efforts to restore order. The letter emphasized that the Ministry has no objection to SLR conducting its Annual General Meeting (AGM) first, followed by a Special General Meeting (SGM) to adopt constitutional amendments recommended by World Rugby by January 31, 2025.
This compromise not only ensures adherence to both local and international governance requirements but also reestablishes Sri Lanka Rugby’s autonomy, ending an absurd detour the sport was forced to take.
The Threat of Suspension
The urgency of this resolution was underscored by World Rugby’s firm stance. The global governing body had extended a deadline to the competent authority until January 31, 2025, to ensure that normalcy was restored. Failure to meet this deadline would result in the suspension of Sri Lanka’s membership in World Rugby, effectively cutting the country off from international competitions.
This also means that the controversial gazette issued by former Minister of Sports Harin Fernando, which suspended SLR, will need to be retracted. The gazette, viewed by many as the beginning of the sport’s recent administrative turmoil, had handed control of SLR to the Director General of Sports Development, Dr. Shemal Fernando, a move that further deepened the crisis.
Addressing Years of Interference
The settlement and subsequent steps mark a turning point after years of mismanagement and external interference. Former Ministers of Sports, including Namal Rajapaksa, Roshan Ranasinghe, and Harin Fernando, as well as international figures such as Asia Rugby President Qais Al Dhalai and World Rugby’s David Carrigy, have been criticized for meddling in SLR’s affairs. Their actions not only destabilized the sport body but also led to Sri Lanka’s exclusion from several international events, causing its global rugby rankings to plummet.
The impact on stakeholders such as players, officials, clubs, sponsors, and fans, has been severe, with many losing livelihoods due to the sport’s prolonged dysfunction. The disruption stunted the growth of rugby in Sri Lanka, a sport with immense potential and widespread appeal.
Minister Gamage Brings Stability
Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage’s leadership has been a game-changer. His commitment to restoring normalcy and addressing the damage caused by years of mismanagement has been widely praised. By supporting the Sri Lanka Rugby Provincial Unions’ efforts to regain control and comply with World Rugby’s conditions, the Minister has shown a clear dedication to safeguarding the future of Sri Lanka Rugby.
In contrast to his predecessors, particularly Harin Fernando, whose decisions derailed the sport’s administration, Minister Gamage has brought clarity and direction. His decisive actions have not only resolved immediate concerns but have also set the stage for long-term progress.
Looking Forward
As rugby returns to the stewardship of SLR, stakeholders can finally anticipate stability and growth. The upcoming AGM and constitutional amendments represent a critical opportunity to rebuild trust and reestablish Sri Lanka’s standing in the international rugby community.
World Rugby’s deadline and the threat of suspension underscore the importance of these reforms. The retraction of Harin Fernando’s gazette will serve as a symbolic and practical step toward ending the turmoil and ensuring the sport is governed in accordance with global standards.
Minister Gamage’s efforts to end this long-standing crisis are a beacon of hope for Sri Lanka Rugby. His leadership demonstrates that with decisive action and a commitment to integrity, even the most entrenched challenges can be overcome, paving the way for the sport to thrive once again.
