The Ministry of Sports in Sri Lanka has announced plans to soon appoint an Interim Committee and involve the three Sri Lankan officials currently serving on the Asia Rugby board to address and resolve the ongoing issues surrounding Sri Lanka Rugby.
After a recent court ruling, the Annual General Meeting and election of SLR officials scheduled for 21st January 2024 was suspended by the Ministry of Sports through its Director General of Sports Shemal Fernando who issued a letter to all stakeholders barely three days before the AGM and election, informing them of its suspension due to several complaints received from founder ‘A’ Division rugby clubs and also from Asia Rugby.
In response to a letter received by the Ministry of Sports from Qais Abdallah the President of the Asia Rugby, the Minister of Sports Secretary A.H.M.U. Bandara responded on the 21st of January 2025 stating “Given the gravity of these objections, we have decided to postpone the Annual General Meeting originally scheduled for the 21st January 2025. The Government of Sri Lanka remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold good governance and ethical practices in sports management.”
“We will conduct a thorough investigation into the complaints raised by Asia Rugby and all relevant stakeholders. This will expedite the revision of the Sri Lanka Rugby Constitution and the appointment of new office bearers. We will appoint a committee of distinguished rugby personnel, including the three Sri Lankan members of the Asia Rugby Board, to oversee these changes.”
“As a founding member of Asia Rugby with a proud 146-year legacy in the sport, Sri Lanka respectfully requests a one-year extension w. e. f. January 31, 2025 to address these constitutional amendments and to conduct a Special General Meeting (SGM), followed by an AGM.”
“In conclusion, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports wishes to reiterate our gratitude to World Rugby and Asia Rugby for your continued support in developing the sport of Rugby in Sri Lanka and across the Asian continent.”
The Ministry of Sports in Sri Lanka has made this strategic move to address the ongoing issues surrounding Sri Lanka Rugby by its intention of appointing an Interim Committee shortly. This committee will work alongside three Sri Lankan officials currently serving on the Asia Rugby board to resolve the pending matters and bring stability to the sport.
This decision comes at a time when Sri Lanka Rugby is embroiled in challenges that have affected the administration and the overall progress of the game. By involving officials who are part of the Asia Rugby board, the Ministry aims to leverage their expertise, insights, and connections within the regional rugby landscape to expedite solutions.
The collaboration between the Interim Committee and these Asia Rugby officials is expected to address administrative inefficiencies, strengthen governance, and lay the groundwork for sustainable development within Sri Lanka Rugby. This approach reflects a commitment to restoring order and fostering a competitive environment for the sport at both national and international levels.
The Ministry’s proactive stance signals a recognition of rugby’s importance to the country’s sports culture and its potential to unite communities through athletic excellence.
Incidentally the three Sri Lankans currently serving Asia Rugby are former SLR President Asanga Seneviratne, former President SLSRFR Dilroy Fernando and former SLR President elect Rtd Group Captain Nalin De Silva.
