COLOMBO: (ePRESS) – Former Sri Lanka Rugby President Rizly Illyas has launched a scathing attack on Asia Rugby President Qais Abdullah Al Dhalai and Asian Rugby Chairman of Tournament Committee Asanga Seneviratne, blaming them for Sri Lanka’s missed opportunity at the Asia Rugby Emirates Under-18 Sevens Rugby Tournament, which concluded in Malaysia on Sunday.
In a strongly worded statement, Illyas accused Asia Rugby of suspending Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) for three years “without any reason,” claiming this decision deprived Sri Lankan players of the international experience needed to compete at the highest level.
“Our players were clearly championship material, but the lack of international exposure over the last three years cost us the title,” Illyas said. “It was a cowardly and shameful act by those responsible.”
Illyas also questioned how Sri Lanka was allowed to participate in the tournament despite being under suspension by both the Ministry of Sports and Asia Rugby. “SLR is still under suspension with no AGM or elected body, yet Asia Rugby suddenly changed the rules to allow us to compete. How can governance norms change like this?” he asked.
He alleged that the tournament was “designed” for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to win, suggesting that Asia Rugby had professionally orchestrated the event in their favor. “They articulated this tournament for UAE to emerge as champions,” he added.
The former president’s statement reflects growing frustration over what he sees as political interference in the sport, which he believes has led to the downfall of Sri Lankan rugby on the international stage.
The controversy has raised serious questions about the transparency and fairness of Asia Rugby’s governance, as Illyas called on the international rugby community to address what he described as an unjust decision that harmed Sri Lanka’s development in the sport.
