CHRIS DHAMBARAGE
COLOMBO – The incumbent President of Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) Rizly Illyas has resigned from his post hoping that his stepping down would clear the way for the effective functioning of SLR free from interference.
“In deference to the decision of Asia Rugby, I formally step down as President of Sri Lanka Rugby with immediate effect,” Illyas said in his letter addressed to Hasan Singhawansa, Executive Director, SLR.
“I thank you and all my colleagues at Sri Lanka Rugby for the kindness and cooperation extended to me. I trust that Asia Rugby and World Rugby would continue to support Sri Lanka Rugby,” Illyas stressed.
“We trust and believe that on September 6 the Court will order the Ministry to revoke the suspension and rugby can continue with the SLR Council.”
“I want the Court case to finish on September 6 or the matter has been dragged on and on. I don’t want rugby to suffer as such this was a personal decision I had taken for the betterment of rugby. My letter explains it all, but I will continue to support the game as always,” Illyas added.
Meanwhile, SLR Executive Director Singhawansa said: “Rizly Illyas has stepped down from the position of SLR President for the game to move forward without political interference and with much respect to the game he represented.”
