By: Staff Writer
Colombo (LNW): In a favourable move for the country , Asia Rugby has made the prudent decision to reinstate Sri Lanka Rugby as a full member of Asia Rugby.
The decision comes upon consideration of the Sri Lanka Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs confirming the cancellation of the gazette notification dated 01 April 2022.
During its meeting on April 9th, 2022, in Phuket, Thailand, the Asia Rugby Executive Committee (EXCO) temporarily suspended Sri Lanka Rugby’s membership.
On 01 May 2022 EXCO unanimously ratified the decision and imposed a full membership suspension.
Asia Rugby President Qais al Dhalai stated, “The EXCO’s decision to suspend Sri Lanka Rugby’s membership was made in accordance with Asia Rugby’s Articles and Regulations to maintain our principles of equality, transparency and accountability.
He noted that he is pleased to hear about the withdrawal of the gazette notification, making it possible for Asia Rugby to lift the suspension.”
Qais further added, “We look forward to welcoming Sri Lanka teams back to Asia Rugby competitions
At its meeting on the 9th of April 2022 in Phuket, Thailand, the Asia Rugby Executive Committee (EXCO) has discussed at length the contrary positions of the Sri Lanka Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Sri Lanka National Olympic Committee in relation to the suspension of Sri Lanka Rugby.
Sri Lanka Rugby was suspended by the then Sri Lankan Minister of Youth and Sports Namal Rajapaksa as announced via an official Government Gazette dated 1st April 2022 .
This was informed to the National Olympic Committee via an official letter signed by the Secretary-General which recognized the Sri Lanka Rugby as the sole representative of the sport of rugby in Sri Lanka.
The Executive Committee concluded that, in accordance with Asia Rugby Regulation 3, the membership of the Sri Lanka Rugby will be temporarily suspended from the Regional Association with immediate effect until further notice
It was imposed on the basis that the Sri Lanka Rugby may no longer be considered as fully responsible for the organisation of rugby-related matters in its jurisdiction; or it is no longer in a position to perform its constitutional and regulatory duties in an appropriate manner.
