Shanka and Dilo to officiate at Asia Rugby in China

Saturday, 22 August 2026 03:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka will make a significant contribution to the Asia Rugby Sevens Series 2026, with Ishanka Abeykoon appointed as a referee and experienced official Dilroy Fernando named Referee Manager for the opening round in Suzhou, China, from 29 to 30 August.

The appointments underline Sri Lanka’s growing contribution to the development of match officiating within Asian rugby, with both officials playing important roles at the region’s premier annual sevens competition.

Abeykoon is among the selected referees and assistant referees drawn from across Asia, joining officials from Japan, Hong Kong China, Singapore, China, Taipei, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE. He is an old boy of Nugawela Central.

Fernando, who has extensive experience in Asian rugby officiating, will oversee the referee management team and play a key role in ensuring high standards throughout the tournament, carrying much pride for Isipathana College as an old boy.

The Suzhou round will feature 24 leading men’s and women’s national teams competing over two days. (SJ)