Sri Lanka Rugby confirms no date change for Kandy vs. Havies encounter

By Shamseer Jaleel

The much-awaited last league encounter between Havies and Kandy SC which was originally scheduled on 11 February will be played on the same day without a change. This was confirmed by Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR).

Due to elections and safety of their players Park Club wanted a change in date to 9 February which is a working day and a full house cannot be expected for a finale. Sponsors Dialog and organiser of the tournament SLR will understandably want it to be a packed house at Nittawela before the trophy is presented to the up-country club.

Sri Lanka Rugby on neutral grounds put it forward to its Administration committee, which decided not to change the date. Further according to reliable sources Police protection too has been confirmed by the Katugastota Police.

In the latest development Havies had written back to SLR refusing to play on 11 February. Park Club President Romesh Abeywickrema had written back saying: “Havelock Sports Club does not wish to compromise the safety of its players, officials, committee members and supporters by travelling all the way to Kandy on a volatile election day (10) and thereafter play the game on election results day (11). Therefore we once again earnestly request you to do the right thing by advancing this match to Friday 9 February, a day before the elections, purely for the safety of all concerned. Given this background it is best that sanity prevails and precautionary measures are taken rather than lament over an unfortunate situation.”

As both clubs have taken different stances, the only option left for SLR is to postpone the tournament by one week to 18 February. This will result in the Clifford Cup too being postponed by seven days. 

Asian Rugby Championship Div I will take place in May 2018 which will give the players a much-needed break after the league and Clifford Cup before taking up training for the Asian tournament. The next sevens assignment for the national outfit will be at the Commonwealth Games rugby during April at Gold Coast in Australia.