New Zealand Rugby referees embark on training mission to boost SL rugby standards
New Zealand Rugby referees embark on training mission to boost SL rugby standards
A delegation of seasoned New Zealand rugby referees has arrived in Sri Lanka to conduct an intensive training programme aimed at raising the calibre of officiating within the Sri Lankan rugby community.
The 24-day initiative, organised with the backing of the Sri Lanka Society of Rugby Football Referees (SLSRFR), Sri Lanka Rugby, and the Ministry of Sports, seeks to equip local referees and club officials with enhanced skills and strategies ahead of the 2024/25 Club Rugby season.
This effort is spearheaded by Krishan Ambawatte, a Sri Lankan-born civil engineer and referee now based in New Zealand.
Ambawatte, who has refereed at both national touch rugby and provincial rugby levels, proposed the idea earlier this year.
“” he explained.
His vision resonated well with both Sri Lankan rugby officials and the Ministry of Sports, paving the way for this partnership with New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty Rugby Union referees.
The programme will deliver workshops for referees across all tiers, as well as training for Judicial and Citing Officers, club administrators, and even coaches and captains.
The New Zealand team, comprising highly experienced referees, will also officiate matches to further strengthen local officiating standards. The programme is headlined by three top referees from New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty Rugby Union:
