Sri Lions Sports Club, the reigning B Division rugby champions, is preparing to make a significant leap into Sri Lanka’s top-tier League with their promotion to the A Division. However, this ascent hasn’t come without controversy, as the established clubs have voiced objections.
However, in an interview with Sunday Observer from Dubai, Founder and President of Sri Lions Dr. Kelum Sujith Perera, shared his views on the challenges and outlined his ambitious vision for the club’s future.
“We’re bringing structure and professionalism to our team,” Dr. Perera declared. “We’ve prepared meticulously over the past four months and our squad of 52 players, led by seasoned coaches, is ready to compete at a higher level.
“For the B Division, we’re planning to field two teams this time, one from Anuradhapura, one from Colombo, along with a women’s team,” he added.
Dr. Perera mentioned the involvement of high-profile coaches such as former Fijian rugby star Epeli Davetawalu and an impressive cast of captains from prominent schools who have signed up.
The Sri Lions are currently training at the Ananda Rugby Ground in Rajagiriya where they will play their home matches.
Sri Lions has also invested in player development, mandating all players to complete Level 1 certification courses – a unique requirement among Sri Lankan rugby clubs. “We’re the only club that mandates all our players to complete level 1 certification courses,” said Dr. Perera, a leading international referee based in the UAE.
“Last month we withheld salaries until they submitted their certificates. It’s part of our strategy to reduce penalties and instill a professional mindset.”
He also emphasized a nutrition-first approach over supplements, with a focus on fitness and testing.
A former Sri Lanka youth international, Perera acknowledged the challenges posed by some premier clubs that have very little interest when it comes to national affairs.
“These clubs are just concerned with their own selfish interests. We’re here to break that monopoly and create opportunities for more players.
“By adding a ninth A Division club and two B Division clubs, we’re giving many players a chance to play professionally,” he stated.
Sri Lions’ promotion has been endorsed by the government Competent Authority (for the suspended Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR)) headed by retired Rear Admiral Professor Shemal Fernando, who sees the club’s entry as vital for rugby’s growth in Sri Lanka.
However, there is the usual off-field opposition as some clubs argue that promoting Sri Lions sets a precedent, reminiscent of past instances like Up Country Lions and Hambantota Sharks that allegedly used political influence to secure top spots.
They also question whether Sri Lions meets the requirements of A Division membership, despite SLR confirming they meet all criteria, including annual audits and governance standards.
In response, Dr. Perera emphasized Sri Lions’ commitment to transparency and professionalism, describing their corporate approach as a departure from traditional club models.
“We’re running this like a corporate entity and our sponsorship from brands like JAT and Powerworld reflects our commitment to high standards,” he added.
Sri Lions are working with a budget of around 75 to 90 million rupees for the season. Looking forward, Dr. Perera also outlined ambitious expansion plans, including a state-of-the-art rugby stadium in partnership with the UAE government and figures like Aarefa Al Falahi as the club’s brand ambassador, aimed at elevating Sri Lankan rugby to international standards.
Rugby is also embroiled in ongoing debates within SLR over administrative issues and a Constitutional crisis that threatens the organisation’s future.
But Perera remains undeterred. “We’re here for the long haul. This isn’t a short-term play for us,” he affirmed, highlighting the club’s long-term vision and their aim to foster a new rugby culture in Sri Lanka.
As Sri Lions prepares for its A Division debut, they also look toward international competitions, such as the upcoming Dubai Sevens, where they compete in the International men’s Open category and Perera believes the club’s success on the international stage can bring renewed energy to Sri Lankan rugby to inspire further development within the sport.
“In two years, we’ll be contenders for the league title,” he said confidently. “We’re building not just for this season, but for generations to come.”
