Sri Lanka Rugby in flux: Suspension awaits new constitution and AGM

Will the hard work of players and coaching staff go to waste

By Shamseer Jaleel

Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) finds itself at a crossroads once again. Last week, Minister of Sports Harin Fernando temporarily suspended the federation to facilitate overdue elections. This move comes amidst calls for reform within the governing body. Further SLR is running out of time, as they need to send the new constitution to the World Rugby (WR) by mid-July. This is far more serious as already being suspended once before within a short span of time. 

The suspension aims to establish a new constitution, specifically removing the controversial “bogus cluster” system implemented by the Provincial Unions. Critics argue this system undermines the voting rights of traditional stakeholders like A division clubs and life members. The new constitution will determine the voting structure for future elections, expected before mid-July 2024. This is a is a new system will give voting rights for A division clubs. Within them, those who have a Women’s outfit plus an Under-24 will get more votes. These votes, along with life members of SLR are also getting their rights to vote.

This suspension comes at a delicate time. Sri Lanka Rugby recently achieved a significant feat, securing promotion to the top tier of Asia Rugby Division 1 which took place in Sri Lanka among the hosts, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Qatar and India with Sri Lanka securing a much-awaited promotion to Asia Top 4 in 2025 with teams such as Hong Kong, South Korea, UAE and Malaysia.

A further suspension could disrupt player development and international participation and effect the players and administrators in a big way. Currently, SLR operates under the purview of the Sports Development Director General Professor (Rear Admiral) Shemal Fernando.

For Sri Lankan rugby to capitalise on its recent success, a transparent and fair election process is crucial. The revised constitution should ensure a strong voice for clubs and life members who have historically driven the sport’s growth. Balancing these concerns with the interests of provincial unions will be paramount.

The upcoming elections present an opportunity for Sri Lanka Rugby to usher in a new era of professionalism and good governance. With a clear vision and a united front, Sri Lankan rugby can build upon its recent achievements and reach even greater heights on the international stage.

While the above waits rugby at both sevens and fifteens are in good shape, with good set of players plus coaching staff being found but with these mess in administration, will a sponsor come forward to tarnish their esteemed company image is the big question remains to be answered.