Kandy SC wants more Clifford Cup games at Nittawela

Thursday, 22 February 2024 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Stresses move will help promoting Rugby in outstations

Kandy Sports Club, Rugby Chairman Lasantha Wijesuriya

By Shamseer Jaleel

Rugby, often regarded as a sport of passion and camaraderie, has long been a significant part of Sri Lanka’s sporting landscape. However, recent events surrounding the scheduling and venue choices for matches, particularly involving Kandy’s Clifford Cup games, have brought to light some concerning issues regarding equity and the promotion of rugby outside of Colombo.

Kandy Sports Club, Rugby Chairman Lasantha Wijesuriya speaking to Daily FT said, “Last time Clifford Cup game was played at Nittawela Stadium in Kandy was in 2017, a staggering seven years ago. This absence raises pertinent questions about the commitment to promoting rugby in outstation areas, particularly when considering Kandy’s consistent success in league competitions despite facing significant hurdles.

“A glaring disparity becomes evident when examining the travel schedules of teams. Kandy routinely travels to Colombo six to seven times during the league season, while Colombo clubs make the journey to Kandy only once. This undue stress on Kandy’s players, must contend with the humid conditions prevalent in Colombo, especially during consecutive weekends of play. Second round itself we travelled three times in tandem and per trip to Colombo our expenses were in the region of Rs. 1.2 million per visit for hotel, transport and other expenses. Only 4 league games were played at Nittawela against 6 away games for us in the League,” Wijesuriya said.

“In light of these issues, Kandy Rugby has proposed a fair and sensible solution to Sri Lanka Rugby. We suggest that Clifford Cup games be played at Nittawela Stadium this year, providing an opportunity for fans and players alike to experience the thrill of top-tier rugby in Kandy. Furthermore, we are agreeable for any Colombo venue in 2025 for the final (if we qualify) This proposed arrangement not only ensures equitable treatment for all teams but also serves as a catalyst for promoting rugby beyond Colombo. By alternating venues between Colombo and Kandy, the SLR can showcase the sport to a broader audience and encourage greater participation and interest in outstation regions,” he added.

Kandy SC has also proposed to SLR that the Nittawela Ground will be given free of charge for the three Kandy matches in the Clifford Cup, if Kandy comes to the final.