Schools Rugby Association to request Referees Society to conduct an inquiry

By Shamseer Jaleel

The Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association (SLSRFA) will officially write to the Sri Lanka Rugby Referees Society (SLRRS) to conduct an inquiry as soon as possible on refereeing at the Science vs Trinity rugby encounter which took place last weekend at the Pallekelle Rugby Stadium which was officiated by Referee Irshard Cader.

Trinity authorities were requested to give an assurance of undertaking that adequate security will be provided for future matches at Pallekelle Rugby Stadium. Further the Schools Association wanted to investigate post-match events which Trinity authorities have agreed to and the agreement letter was sent out to the Schools Rugby Association by Trinity Principal Andrew Fowler-Watt.

Meanwhile, Trinity too hit back strongly, requesting an impartial inquiry on substandard refereeing in their last game against Science College. They wanted to be present at the inquiry and agreed to show the video evidence at that inquiry. The inquiry is likely to take place early next week.

A similar incident occurred at the Isipathana vs Science game, where on field referee Rohan Fernando was assaulted by fans while he was walking towards the dressing room. Though an inquiry had been finalised regarding the incident and the SLRRS has submitted the guidelines to the SLSRFA, the final decision is not clear yet. Trinity College will lock horns with Isipathana at CR & FC on 4 June. 

They will have two more home matches in the Singer Rugby league 2016 when they play the Peterites (11 June) and the Katugastota Antonians (18 June). 

All rugby fans in the country will be awaiting the inquiry to be done in a fair manner for both parties. A point has also been raised by many that schools rugby should be brought under the governing body for rugby in the country, the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union (SLRFU), for a smooth flow in the game which provides youngsters for the National Team.