Asian Rugby boss Al Dhalai commends SLR efforts
QaisAbdullah Al Dhalai the Asia Rugby President(third from left) briefs the media. Others in the picture from left-Jude Pillai, Secretary, SLR, Hasib Omar, Executive Director, Moose Clothing Company, Rizly Illyas, President, SLR and Ben Gollings, National Sevens coach (Picture by Wasitha Patabendige)
Asian Rugby (AR) boss Qais Abdullah Al Dhalai commended the efforts and progress of Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) at a press briefing held in Colombo, while disclosing the official sponsor and appointment of a new sevens coach.
“As the head of the Regional Association, I am compelled to visit the member countries, and as an initiative my priority was to begin my visit here. Rugby is the second biggest sport played in Sri Lanka and there is a need to restart the game sooner than later. There are several challenges like in other countries facing the COVID-19, but with the wisdom of President Rizly and his team they are moving on the right track,” said Al Dhalai.
AR has supported SLR for the past 18 months with a grant of U$ 40,000 to cover up the administrative cost, and continues to do so. They further believe they should support one of their strong members at this crucial juncture.
Al Dhalai was expected to meet the Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa and get his support to put the oval shaped ball game on the right track. “I am scheduled to meet the Sports Minister and get his support to get the game back on track. I have got the mandate from 35 countries who elected me to serve and to do my best to facilitate the countries to play the game with the right spirit,” Al Dhalai further added.
He also congratulated former Englishman Ben Gollings who has been drafted in as the Sevens specialist coach for the Sri Lanka team, which was also disclosed at this ceremony. “We know that Ben is no stranger to Sri Lanka. I congratulate him on his new appointment. With his influence, I hope Sri Lanka rugby will reach great heights,” concluded Al Dhalai.
Addressing the gathering SLR President Rizly Illyas thanked Al Dhalai for placing his confidence in him and his regime and for the support rendered, especially the financial support. “I am thankful to Al Dhalai for making this short visit and gracing this occasion which is a unique occasion for Sri Lankan rugby. Al Dhalai has been a pillar of strength for us and has supported us financially by granting us U$40,000 during this crisis time to cover our administration costs. At a time rugby has been rated as a level four game we are striving hard to restart the game with the support of the Sports Minister, which is a very positive sign from the games perspective,” said Illyas.
Sachith Silva (with ball in hand) making a break.