Sri Lanka Ban Lifted by IRB, Regain Full Member Status

The Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union (SLRFU) has been restored to full International Rugby Board (IRB) Member Union status with immediate effect after an announcement was made yesterday, April 13, by the sport’s world governing body.

The decision, taken by the IRB Council, after a comprehensive review of membership status of the SLRFU, follows the successful completion of the Union’s Annual General Meeting and Board elections in accordance with its constitution.

The IRB had banned the Sri Lankan union over a month ago following the failure of the SLRFU to conduct appropriate board elections in accordance with IRB Bye Laws.

SLRFU representative sides will participate in Asian Rugby Football Union competitions during 2011.

Sri Lanka has one of the fastest growth rates of Rugby participation in Asia, representing a 250 per cent increase since 2007.