Sri Lanka is set to host English rugby club Northampton Saints for a major international fixture against the Asia Pacific Lions (APL) in Colombo in August 2026, following the signing of a partnership agreement between the two sides.
The agreement was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at Cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens in England, organisers announced on Wednesday (13).
The match, scheduled to be played at Racecourse International Stadium in Colombo on August 28, is expected to be one of the biggest international rugby events hosted in Sri Lanka in recent years.
Asia Pacific Lions Founder and Director Saabir Cader described the partnership as “a historic day for rugby in our region,” saying the agreement represented a major step forward for rugby in Asia.
“Partnering with a club of Saints’ heritage, success and professionalism upholds our vision,” Cader said, while inviting Northampton supporters to visit Sri Lanka for the tour.
Former Australian rugby star David Campese, who serves as Director of Rugby for the Asia Pacific Lions, said the fixture would provide players from the region with greater international exposure.
“There is so much passion for rugby in Sri Lanka. The players need more opportunities like this, and fans deserve bigger events to witness in their country,” Campese said.
Meanwhile, Pavithra Fernando, the President of Sri Lanka Rugby said the event would help elevate rugby in Sri Lanka and the wider Asian region.
“This is a significant moment for Sri Lanka and Asia Rugby,” Fernando said.
Further details on ticketing and related community programmes are expected to be announced through the Asia Pacific Lions’ official platforms. (Newswire)