Despite the turbulence that has clouded the administrative landscape of Sri Lanka Rugby—marked by suspensions, legal challenges, and the presence of a de facto interim committee overseeing the sport—the island’s passion for rugby continues to thrive. On the field, the game goes on. Off the field, critical efforts are being made to steer the sport back toward stability and excellence.
Today marked a significant moment in that journey as the Sri Lankan Minister of Youth Affairs and Sport, Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage, welcomed the President of Asia Rugby, Mr. Qais Al Dhalai, and an official delegation to Colombo. The high-profile visit coincided with a crucial playoff match between Sri Lanka and Malaysia, with both nations vying for a coveted position in Asia Rugby’s Tier One bracket—a gateway to higher-level competition and greater recognition on the continental stage.
Mr. Al Dhalai’s arrival in Colombo marks his fourth official visit to Sri Lanka since assuming the presidency of Asia Rugby in November 2019. His consistent engagement with the island nation underscores a deep-rooted partnership and Asia Rugby’s unwavering commitment to nurturing and developing the sport within Sri Lanka.
During the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their dedication to working collaboratively through the sport’s current challenges. The Asia Rugby delegation reiterated its full support for the reform process now underway, and expressed confidence in the cooperation between Sri Lanka Rugby, the Ministry of Sports, and the National Olympic Committee in crafting a new governance structure. This framework aims not only to restore public and stakeholder trust but also to ensure that the sport is managed according to both Sri Lankan expectations and global standards of integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness.
In a statement following the meeting, Minister Gamage emphasized the importance of international partnerships in elevating Sri Lanka’s sporting profile. “The presence of Mr. Al Dhalai is more than ceremonial—it is symbolic of our shared commitment to uphold the spirit of the game, even during challenging times. With Asia Rugby’s backing, we believe a new era for Sri Lanka Rugby is not just possible, but inevitable.”
As fans rally behind the national team in their pivotal clash with Malaysia, today’s diplomatic engagements serve as a reminder that while rugby is played on the field, its survival and growth are shaped by bold leadership, international solidarity, and a relentless belief in its power to unite and inspire.
