Sri Lanka Rugby’s (SLR) Disciplinary Committee has imposed sanctions on a franchise coach and members of the Kandy Tuskers coaching staff following separate incidents connected with the Next XV U19 national selection tournament.
The committee found Galle Lions Mentor Omalka Gunaratne guilty of physical assault on a Kandy Tuskers player after he admitted to the charge.
SLR said that his conduct was contrary to the spirit and values of rugby and noted that the bodily harm caused could constitute a criminal offence.
Gunaratne has been suspended from all rugby-related activities for three months, including coaching, mentoring, and playing. A further one-year suspension was imposed, to remain suspended for two years and take effect if he is found guilty of another disciplinary offence during that period.
In a separate inquiry, Achintha Jayasena, associated with the Kandy Tuskers playing pool, was found guilty of misconduct involving a fellow player, with the committee citing humiliation and mental distress.
Jayasena has been removed from the Kandy Tuskers squad for the remainder of the tournament and barred from contact with the affected player during training or matches. He must also issue a formal apology.
Kandy Tuskers Coaches Lasitha Attanagoda and Fazil Marija were fined 20% of their tournament fee for failing in their duty of care.
The disciplinary action also reflects the wider principles set out in World Rugby (WR) Regulation 18 – Misconduct and Code of Conduct, which requires all rugby bodies and participants to uphold disciplined and sporting behaviour, mutual respect, and the integrity of the game.
Regulation 18 further places responsibility on unions and associations to monitor compliance and impose appropriate sanctions within their jurisdictions.
In the context of an Under 19 tournament, these obligations are particularly important because WR’s safeguarding guidance states that the welfare of young players is of paramount importance and that harassment and abuse are inconsistent with the values of rugby.
The SLR decisions underline the fact that coaches, mentors, and officials have responsibilities beyond the playing field; they are expected to protect player welfare, maintain appropriate standards of conduct, and report misconduct through the proper channels.
All sanctioned parties have seven days to appeal.
The SLR Disciplinary Committee consists of Farman Cassim PC, SLR Deputy President Shanitha Fernando, and SSP Ajantha Rodrigo.
(JK)