By: Shamseer Jaleel

Kandy, Feb. 21 (Daily Mirror) - Rugby, often regarded as a sport of passion and camaraderie, has long been a significant part of Sri Lanka's sporting landscape. However, recent events surrounding the scheduling and venue choices for matches, particularly involving Kandy SC's Clifford Cup games, have brought to light some concerning issues regarding equity and the promotion of rugby outside of Colombo.

Kandy SC Rugby Chairman, Lasantha Wijesuriya said: “The last time a Clifford Cup game was played at the Nittawela Stadium in Kandy was in 2017, a staggering seven years ago. This absence raises questions about the commitment to promoting rugby in outstation areas, particularly when considering Kandy SC's consistent success in League competitions despite facing significant hurdles.”

Lasantha said, "A glaring disparity becomes evident when examining the travel schedules of teams. Kandy SC routinely travels to Colombo six to seven times during the League season while Colombo clubs make the journey to Kandy only once.”

“This undue stress on Kandy SC players must contend with the humid conditions prevalent in Colombo, especially during consecutive weekends of play.”

“In the second round itself we travelled three times in tandem and per travel to Colombo our expenses are in the region of 1.2m per visit for hotel, transport and other expenses. Only four League games were played at the Nittawela Stadium against six away games for us in the League.

Lasantha also said: “In light of these issues, Kandy SC Rugby has proposed a fair and sensible solution to Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR). We suggest that Clifford Cup games be played at the Nittawela Stadium this year, allowing fans and players alike to experience the thrill of top-tier rugby in Kandy.”

“Furthermore, we are agreeable to the Colombo venue for 2025 plus agreeable to play in any venues in Colombo for the final (if we qualify). This proposed arrangement not only ensures equitable treatment for all teams but also catalyzes promoting rugby beyond Colombo.”

“By alternating venues between Colombo and Kandy, the SLR can showcase the sport to a broader audience and encourage greater participation and interest in outstation regions.”

Meanwhile, Vice-President, SLR and Tournament Committee Director, Admiral Udaya Hettiarachchi said: “We will make a final decision on the venue of the Clifford Cup matches at the Council Meeting which will take place on Thursday.”

Kandy SC have proposed to SLR that the Nittawela Ground will be provided free of charge for the three Kandy SC matches of the Clifford Cup if Kandy SC comes to the final.