June 28, (LNW) Colombo : Further details on the grievance submitted to the Sports Ministry’s Ombudsman by Former Rugby President Rizly Illyas, calling for a probe into the officials accountable for the £50,000 penalty levied by the World Rugby Federation and the 55 million rupees debt to Sri Lanka Rugby during Asanga Senaviratne and Lasitha Gunaratne’s administration. Met with Ombudsman Chulananda Perera today to report the more information. After the meeting, he told the media that without consequences for such errors, future appointees might repeat them. Rizly Illyas believes that permitting the administration to continue without taking action against those responsible sets a detrimental precedent for the future.
The Former Rugby President said the media that the ombudsman comprehended the pertinent issues well, but emphasized that within his role, he must ascertain the feasibility of taking action in this matter. Nevertheless, Illyas also stated the media that the ombudsman will prepare a comprehensive report on the matter and ensure its submission to the minister. “The Sports Minister will take appropriate action regarding this matter.”
Rizly Illyas mentioned that he provided the necessary data to the ombudsman for verifying the facts he mentioned, emphasizing that it should not be difficult to ascertain all the relevant details. “The necessary documentation to verify this information can be obtained from the auditor. Additionally, details regarding the fine can be obtained from the World Rugby Federation.” After stating that, Rizly Illyas mentioned that the Minister and the World Rugby Federation can identify the improper influence of a group of individuals on the Sri Lankan rugby constitution, along with the motives of those influencing it, and the reasons behind this fine.
