Former Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) Secretary and Havelock SC President, Thusith Peiris shared his candid views on the state of rugby in Sri Lanka, addressing a wide range of issues including the promotion of Sri Lions to the A Division, the stagnation of the provincial system and the leadership vacuum at SLR.
Peiris strongly criticised the entry of Sri Lions into the A Division, asserting that it violates SLR’s Constitution. “The Constitution clearly outlines how promotions are to be handled. The disciplinary committee must hold inquiries and report to the Council, which then decides. This process was bypassed,” he explained.
He alleged that Sri Lions fielded ineligible players in the B Division, leading to their contested championship. “If they have violated the Constitution, their promotion is invalid. The Competent Authority (Prof. Shemal Fernando) cannot make this decision; only the Council can,” Peiris pointed out.
With the SLR inactive and the league delayed due to legal wrangle, Peiris revealed that clubs are considering organising their own tournament. “We cannot wait indefinitely for court rulings or union decisions. Clubs have invested heavily in the sport, bearing most costs except referees, match commissioners, and doctors. We are ready to move forward independently, even if the union remains paralysed.”
Peiris dismissed accusations of rebellion, stating: “This isn’t about undermining the union. It’s about ensuring the survival of rugby. The Director General (DG) of Sports (Prof. Shemal Fernando) only oversees national duties; he cannot manage domestic tournaments.”
Peiris argued that the provincial rugby model introduced in the 1990s has failed to deliver results. “This system was an attempt to replicate New Zealand’s model, but in 30 years, what has it achieved? Provinces haven’t developed clubs, schools, or sustainable structures. The founder clubs still produce the majority of national players,” he said.
He called for a clear demarcation of roles, suggesting that provinces focus on grassroots development while clubs manage top-tier rugby. “Provinces should nurture schools, C-segment clubs and B-segment clubs. Promotion to A Division should be merit-based, earned over years of performance.”
Peiris criticised SLR’s leadership for failing to meet World Rugby’s requirements, jeopardising Sri Lanka’s membership. “Past court settlements clearly outlined the need to fulfill World Rugby’s mandates. Leaders must act responsibly or step aside,” he remarked.
Highlighting the financial disparities between cricket and rugby, Peiris said, “Cricket clubs receive millions annually, while rugby clubs struggle with debt. Women’s rugby could attract significant World Rugby funding, but SLR has not capitalised on this opportunity.”
Peiris defended the contributions of the eight founder clubs, which he described as the backbone of Sri Lankan rugby. “These clubs have sustained the sport for over a century, producing national players and managing their operations independently. Critics claiming clubs hinder development ignore their pivotal role in the game’s survival,” he asserted.
He warned against allowing wealthy individuals to bypass established systems. “If unchecked, we risk turning rugby into a playground for those who can afford to buy players and form teams, undermining decades of effort.”
Peiris concluded with a plea for unity and action to save Sri Lankan rugby. “The game belongs to no one individual or group. We must set aside personal agendas and work collectively for its revival. If SLR cannot fulfill its responsibilities, clubs are prepared to step up – not to divide the sport, but to ensure its continuity.”
As a former player, coach, administrator and lifelong supporter of rugby, Peiris remains committed to seeing the game thrive, urging stakeholders to prioritise its interests over personal gains.
