SLR permits one foreign player per club

Friday, 31 October 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) has announced the inclusion of foreign players for 2025/2026 A Division Season which will commence mid November 2025, covering the League, Knockout, and Sevens tournaments. The Executive Committee initially approved two foreign players per club but, following discussions with A Division teams regarding budget constraints and limited preparation time, decided to permit one foreign player per club for the upcoming season.

From the 2026/2027 season onward, clubs will be allowed to include two foreign players, providing adequate time for planning and budgeting. This balanced approach addresses financial challenges while maintaining the goal of improving competition quality and promoting international exposure.

Inclusion of foreign players is essential to raise the standard of domestic rugby, attract sponsors, and reignite public interest in the sport. The inclusion also supports the long-term vision of revitalising Sri Lankan rugby by developing local talent and enhancing the game’s competitiveness on an international scale.