Colombo, Sri Lanka — April 9, 2025 — Sri Lanka Rugby, with the endorsement of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, is pleased to announce that the Sri Lanka National Rugby Team will face the Malaysia National Rugby Team in a crucial Asia Rugby Championship (ARC) playoff match. The encounter is scheduled for Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the Race Course International Rugby Stadium in Colombo 07, with kickoff at 4:00 PM local time.
Match Details:
- Event: Asia Rugby Men’s Championship 2025 – Playoff Match
- Teams: Sri Lanka vs. Malaysia
- Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025
- Venue: Race Course International Rugby Stadium, Colombo 07
- Kick-off: 4:00 PM (local time)
This decisive fixture holds significant importance for Sri Lanka Rugby. A victory will elevate Sri Lanka to the Top Tier in the Asia Rugby Men’s Rankings, securing the No. 4 spot among Asian rugby-playing nations, a milestone achievement not reached in over a decade. The winner of this playoff will advance to the Asia Rugby Emirates Men’s Championship 2025, joining top-tier teams Hong Kong, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. The championship winner will secure direct qualification to the Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia, while the runner-up will have another opportunity to qualify by facing the second-placed team from the African Rugby Championship.
The Malaysia National Team is expected to arrive in Colombo shortly and will be accommodated at Hilton Colombo, our hospitality partner for the tour. Both teams will engage in training sessions and media briefings leading up to the main event.
In preparation for this significant match, the Honorable Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, along with the Competent Authority of Sri Lanka Rugby, will host the official media conference of the Emirates Asia Rugby Men’s Championship 2025 match between Sri Lanka and Malaysia. The conference is scheduled for Wednesday, April 9, at the Colombo Hilton Hotel, Moonstone Room, commencing at 4:00 PM onwards.
This match represents more than just a game; it is a gateway to the highest level of competition in Asian rugby. The nation’s rugby community, supporters, and aspiring young players are urged to rally behind the team for what promises to be a thrilling and historic encounter.
Asia Rugby, the continental governing body comprising 36 member nations, has organized this decisive fixture, marking a pivotal moment for Sri Lanka Rugby.
For Media Inquiries:
Mr. Hasan Singhewansa
Mobile: +94 77 763 7113
Issued by: Sri Lanka Rugby – With the Blessings of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs
Date: April 9, 2025
