May 14, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is preparing to welcome one of England’s most recognised rugby clubs after Northampton Saints confirmed plans to tour Colombo next year for a high-profile fixture against the Asia Pacific Lions.
The historic encounter is scheduled to take place on 28 August 2026 at the Racecourse International Stadium and is already being described by organisers as a major boost for rugby in Sri Lanka and the wider Asian region.
The partnership between the two organisations was officially sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding signed at Cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens earlier this week, paving the way for what is expected to become an annual collaboration aimed at expanding rugby’s international reach.
Saabir Cader, founder and director of the Asia Pacific Lions, hailed the agreement as a milestone moment for the sport in Asia, saying the involvement of a club with Northampton’s tradition and global standing would inspire young players across the region.
He added that the event would not only showcase elite-level rugby but also promote Sri Lanka as a sporting and tourism destination, with overseas supporters expected to travel to Colombo for the match and related events.
Former Australian rugby legend David Campese, who currently serves as Director of Rugby for the Asia Pacific Lions, said the fixture would provide valuable exposure for emerging players from Asia-Pacific nations seeking opportunities to compete at a higher standard.
According to Campese, rugby enthusiasm in Sri Lanka continues to grow steadily, but players require more access to international competition in order to develop professionally and strengthen the region’s standing in the sport.
Meanwhile, Pavithra Fernando described the upcoming event as an important occasion for Sri Lankan rugby, noting that international matches of this scale could help attract investment, improve grassroots participation and elevate the country’s rugby profile globally.
Organisers are also expected to launch a series of coaching clinics, youth development programmes and community rugby initiatives around the tour to maximise local engagement ahead of the match.
Further announcements regarding ticket sales, hospitality packages and fan events are expected in the coming months through the official channels of the Asia Pacific Lions.