Prof. (Rear Admiral) Shemal Fernando
As Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) finds itself at a critical juncture the national sports body grapples with a precarious relationship with World Rugby and Asia Rugby. Despite all stakeholders agreeing to amend the constitution during a pivotal meeting in December in Colombo, new legal roadblocks have emerged, particularly concerning the admittance of the Sri Lions team to the A Division. This situation unfolds despite the best intentions of the Competent Authority Prof. (Rear Admiral) Shemal Fernando to restore real-time administration to rugby stakeholders.
As the Director General of the Department of Sports Development, Fernando has taken significant steps to address these challenges with the guidance of the National Sports Council (NSC). Former Sri Lanka rugby great Priyantha Ekanayake has been appointed as NSC chairman while the final composition of the council is expected on Monday. Fernando now seeks the council’s assistance in resolving the ongoing turmoil, especially as a ban looms, with a deadline extension sought beyond November 8.
“All my decisions are always made in the best interest of the sport and in accordance with the Sports Act and existing Regulations,” reiterated Professor Fernando. His role in overseeing rugby commenced after Sri Lanka Rugby struggled to meet World Rugby and Asia Rugby requirements before their tenure concluded on May 31.
He details the complexities stemming from court decisions that barred former SLR President Rizly Illyas from participation, as per agreements with World Rugby and Asia Rugby.
Last December, a crucial meeting involved representatives from various sectors, including World Rugby, Asia Rugby, Sri Lanka Rugby, the Ministry of Sports, and the National Olympic Committee. Stakeholders from schools, clubs, the referees’ association, and provincial unions attended, culminating in a consensus on the necessary steps to move forward, which was formally signed off. However, the requirement for a special general meeting for key amendments to the constitution, necessitating approval from the Attorney General’s Department, could not be fulfilled by the deadline.
After being appointed as the competent authority for several sports, including rugby, Professor Fernando detailed the actions he took, including publishing notices in all three languages and calling for stakeholder meetings. He even formed a five-member election committee to expedite the process. However, Sri Lanka Rugby sought court intervention, citing procedural issues.
“I’d originally proposed a fast-track approach, but when they requested more time, I agreed,” said Fernando.
Despite his efforts, a court order was issued on the day of the special general meeting, obstructing the passage of a revised constitution.
Amid these challenges, Sri Lanka recently participated in the Asia Rugby Sevens Under-18, as well as men’s and women’s senior teams, enhancing its standing with World Rugby and Asia Rugby. They secured an extension until November 8. However, with ongoing delays, Fernando fears that the Special General Meeting (SGM) and Annual General Meeting (AGM) may not be completed by the deadline.
Regarding the Sri Lions controversy, Fernando said: “Right after I was appointed, I received a request from them stating they had won the B Division and were eagerly waiting for approval to play in the A Division.”
He backed Sri Lions, given their claim to have met the necessary requirements.
However, he encountered opposition from established clubs. “I called a meeting to discuss the situation and explain my position,” Fernando said.
During this meeting, grievances arose from others opposed to the Sri Lions’ promotion. Fernando highlighted that such concerns should have been raised earlier, during the B Division season.
As the National Sports Council is set to be finalised, Fernando anticipates meeting with Chairman Priyantha Ekanayake, to seek guidance. “This Council is the primary advisory board to the Prime Minister on sports matters. Without their backing, there’s a risk one of the teams could go to court for an interim order,” said Fernando.
Despite not being a rugby expert, Fernando holds a PhD in sports science and is committed to making decisions beneficial for both the sport and the country. “Our players have already lost a lot of opportunities, especially during the Covid pandemic and a whole generation has suffered because of it,” he said.
Fernando’s extensive background in sports administration complements his current role. A product of Royal College, Colombo, he has made substantial contributions to athletics and sports management. He is the first Sri Lankan to complete a PhD in sports science, with numerous accolades, including the Presidential Sports Award for Sri Lanka’s Most Outstanding Sports Science Academic in 2017 and 2018.
His credentials include a Master’s in Management, an Executive MSc in sports administration from the International Olympic Committee, and an MPhil in management.
As Fernando navigates the turbulent waters, he remains focused on the need for unity among stakeholders. “I’m always looking for the best pathway,” he asserted. “We could end up with a ban and then everything would collapse. So I’m taking this step carefully to make sure we’re doing what’s best for the future of rugby and its players.”
