By Harsha Amarasinghe

Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) in collaboration with Sri Lanka Air Force is set to introduce an inter-club 7’s rugby tournament which has been named as the ‘Commander’s Cup.’

Although the exact dates of the tournament are still to be announced, Daily Mirror understands that the tournament could be organized within the space of two months and played in a bio-secure bubble adhering to health guidelines.

All the first division club teams including Air Force, Army, CR & FC, CH & FC, Havelocks, Police SC, Navy SC and Kandy SC are expected to take part in this tournament.

The clubs will be requested to pick a 20-member squad including 15 players and five officials. 

The tournament is expected to involve 160 players and 40 officials with the matches set to be played behind closed doors, but each match will be streamed online.

Daily Mirror can also confirm that the total budget for the tournament could be in the excess of Rs. 25 million to Rs. 30 million.

When contacted by Daily Mirror SLR President Rizly Illyas said that the tournament could go ahead should they receive the support from all relevant parties.

“I believe this would be a great opportunity for many players to showcase their talent and on the other hand it is a very difficult situation for the whole world, but as we all know sports could really bring happiness to the lives of people. We had a positive discussion with the Sports Minister. He is also keen to get things moving and we have submitted a very comprehensive document on how we could arrange the event.  All I can say is that we are ready to organize a top quality sevens tournament, but we do need the support from the Ministry of Sports as well as the Ministry of Health,” Illyas said.

Picture: Rizly Illyas, SLR President