SL XV lost S. Korean exposure due to visa delay

Saturday, 13 June 2026 04:44 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

Sri Lanka Rugby suffered an unfortunate setback even before taking the field for its final Asia Rugby Top 3 Championship fixture against South Korea in Incheon on 13 June. Visa-related delays ultimately resulted in the cancellation of the team’s travel plans, forcing Sri Lanka to cancel the match and denying the players an opportunity to compete on the international stage.

According to reliable sources, the national selectors finalised the squad on 31 May and subsequently forwarded the details to the Sri Lanka Rugby administration to commence the visa process. However, delays occurred somewhere within the administrative chain before the documents reached the Korean Embassy through the Ministry of Sports. It remains unclear where the hold-up originated.

Under normal circumstances, the Korean Embassy requires four to five working days to process visas. Given that international fixtures are scheduled well in advance, such essential documentation should have been handled with sufficient lead time to avoid complications.

The disappointment is particularly significant for a youthful Sri Lankan squad led by captain Lasindu Karunathilake. Head Coach Dushanth Lewke and his players had undergone demanding preparations despite several senior players being unavailable due to national sevens commitments.

For several members of the squad, including Janith Chandimal, Dimuth Perera, Udesh Madushanka, and Isuru Kohongage, the tour would have marked their first opportunity to represent Sri Lanka overseas and earn their international debuts. That milestone will now have to wait.

In an official statement issued yesterday, and signed by Asia Rugby Chief Executive Officer Benjamin Van Rooyen, it was confirmed that despite extensive efforts by Sri Lanka Rugby, the Korea Rugby Union, Asia Rugby, and the relevant authorities, the visa process could not be completed before the scheduled departure. As a result, the Sri Lankan squad was unable to travel to South Korea for the crucial fixture.

Asia Rugby explored alternative arrangements, including the possibility of rescheduling the match. However, due to a limited international window, existing domestic and international commitments, and logistical constraints, no suitable date could be found within the current competition calendar.

Information regarding competition standings and related matters will be communicated separately.