Independent Technical Advisory Committee to streamline key areas to enhance quality, fair play at Dialog Schools Rugby

SLSRFA General Secretary Manuja Nimmana, Former Police SC and National rugby skipper, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police M.H. Marso, World Rugby qualified Judicial Officer Aruna Jayasekara, SLR Past President Lasitha Gunaratne, Retired Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police M.R. Lattif, Asia Rugby and World Rugby Match Day Doctor, Sports and Exercise Medicine Physician Dr. Namith Sankalpana, Sports Medicine Consultant Dr. K.A.P. Kiriella, SLSRFA Former President Ranjith Chandrasekara and SLSRFA President Kamal Ariyasinghe

In a bid to improve the quality, discipline and players’ safety at the upcoming Dialog Schools Rugby League and Knock - Out tournaments, the Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association (SLSRFA) has appointed an Independent Technical Advisory Committee with the facilitation of Dialog Axiata PLC. Comprising of esteemed professionals, the committee will focus on uplifting the standards to create a level playing field bringing a professional outlook in the conduct of the tournament. 

The Advisory Committee is mandated to advise and guide the SLSRFA on technical and other related issues that are deemed appropriate in keeping with the core principles, values, guidelines and regulations of the world rugby. The responsibility of executing such advice and recommendations lies on SLSRFA.

The newly constituted committee comprises, Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police M. R. Lattif (retired), Former Police SC and National rugby skipper Deputy Inspector General of Police M.H. Marso (retired), SLR Past President Lasitha Gunaratne, World Rugby qualified Judicial Officer Aruna Jayasekara, SLSFRA former President Ranjith Chandrasekara, Sports and Exercise Medicine Physician, Asia Rugby and World Rugby Match Day Doctor Dr. Namith Sankalpana and Sports Medicine Consultant Dr. K.A.P. Kiriella.

Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association (SLSRFA) President Kamal Ariyasinghe said: “We are excited to announce the appointment of the Rugby Technical Advisory Committee. The main objective of this initiative is to enhance the quality and standards of our tournaments by leveraging the expertise of these rugby giants in the Sri Lankan rugby field. Their invaluable knowledge will not only help uplift the standards but also bring numerous benefits from a student’s perspective. Additionally, their guidance will be instrumental in mitigating risks, addressing discipline matters, and ensuring security issues are properly managed at the ground.” 

Operating under key pillars, the advisory committee aims to bolster various facets of the league, including competition structure, rules and regulations, security measures, data management, governance, administration, digital solutions, player development pathways and player’s welfare. Addressing these critical areas, it seeks to ensure the seamless operation of the game on and off the field. 

Through the collective expertise and steadfast adherence to these pillars, the committee endeavours to make the 2024 Dialog Schools Rugby season an unequivocal triumph, offering a secure and fulfilling experience for all participants. The ultimate objective is to be a feeder by moulding school rugby players to represent the national team.