‘A Question of Sovereignty’

As Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) approaches a decisive legal ruling on April 28, tensions continue to mount over what many see not as a simple constitutional dispute, but a battle for the soul of the sport in the island nation.

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With Asia Rugby (AR) and World Rugby (WR) applying pressure and threatening extended suspensions, top figures within the Sri Lankan rugby community are speaking out — raising concerns about autonomy, double standards, and political manoeuvring.

Waruna de Silva, Secretary of the Western Province Rugby Football Union (WPRFU), issued a pointed critique of Asia Rugby President Qais Al Dhalai’s involvement in the crisis.

“Asia Rugby speaks of equality — one vote per nation — yet selectively applies this principle when it suits a political agenda,” de Silva stated. “They say Japan’s vote is equal to that of Palestine, yet in Sri Lanka, the same AR President argues that local A Division clubs, which invest heavily in rugby development, should be afforded more influence - completely contradicting his earlier claim of equality.”

De Silva contends that what is being portrayed as a governance reform initiative is in reality a deeper struggle over sovereignty, autonomy, and consistency in the enforcement of global rugby regulations.