The need for Sri Lanka Rugby to stand firm against external interference

AS the 14 June deadline imposed by World Rugby (WR) looms, Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) finds itself at a defining crossroads. What is being framed as a constitutional dispute is, in fact, a larger issue of autonomy, transparency, and double standards within global and regional rugby governance.

- BY WARUNA DE SILVA

At the heart of this crisis is a concerning level of interference from the President of Asia Rugby (AR), whose recent actions suggest an attempt to override SLR’s internal democratic processes under the guise of institutional reform.

Equal votes, unequal influence

The AR President has repeatedly emphasised that each member union—whether Japan or Palestine—holds one equal vote. However, this principle is being selectively applied. Japan, a globally respected rugby nation with a strong presence in both 15s and 7s formats, contributes tens of millions of dollars annually to the sport. Yet, their vote is deemed equal to nations with minimal participation. Meanwhile, 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.

This contradiction exposes what many believe is a hidden agenda: to restore the previously ousted leadership of SLR, despite these individuals being decisively rejected by local stakeholders in fair, democratic elections. The rationale appears political—positioning these figures for potential elevation within AR itself.

Undermining SLR's constitutional integrity