Chamara Vithanage free to play rugby again after Dec. 8

by Jatila KARAWITA

RUGBY: Former Sri Lanka Sevens Rugby skipper Chamara Vithanage who was at the centre of a row allegedly manhandling of a local referee during an inter-school rugby match between Trinity and Kingswood at Pallekele in 2006 and who was slapped with a two-year ban in June 2007 by the game's controlling body SLRFU is set free and has the opportunity of resuming playing after December 8 this year, the "Sunday Observer" learns.

"I hope to start playing in the Merccantile Sevens in another three months time," added vithanage.

Vithanage, known for his effervescent style of play as a centre three-quarter for Kingswood and Kandy SC, said that the SLRFU and he have decided to withdraw the cases filed by each party coming to a amicable settlement on the issue.

He stated that missing rugby for a period of more than 18 months was a setback for him, but was determined to catch up with the game once again.

"Missing competitive domestic and international rugby for such a long time is no doubt disappointing. But, as I had to follow rules and regulations, I am prepared to start all over again and try to regain my rightful place in my club (Kandy SC) team.

The talented centre added that his immediate aim will be to find a place in the starting XV of Kandy SC ahead of the 2009 inter-club rugby season and if selected to the national Sevens and 15-a-side teams, he is prepared to give off his best. Vithanage also expressed his sadness at not being able to share in the glory of his champion club Kandy SC which once again ended as unbeaten champs in both league and knock-out tournaments.

"I am prepared to forget the past and start afresh and play at my best for Kandy Sports Club," was Vithanage's assurance.

The ex-national Sevens captain also observed that during the time he was away from the game, he had constantly kept in touch with his Kandy SC teammates and their head coach Johann Taylor and the other members of the team. "I was particularly happy the way Kandy SC played that season and they deserved to win. Chamara Vithanage was handed a two-year ban by the SLRFU after they found him guilty at an inquiry of having accosted referee Pradeep Fernando at the end of a key inter-school rugby match between Trinity and Kingswood played at Pallekele.

Fernando identified Vithanage as his assailant and lodged a complant with Balagalla Police, who after recording a statement from the player concerned, filed a court case.

Vithanage in return, with his own legal team challenged the two-year ban slapped on him by the SLRFU.

Both the SLRFU and Vithanage were then entangled in the said court case during the past 1 1/2 year period before the two parties came to a settlement.