Rugby in 20th Century Sri Lanka & Havelocks Sports Club 2023 – by Joe Paiva
I spent some time at both CR & FC & Havelocks Club room recently.
Anecdotal information indicates Club rugby is on the slow decline.
While School & College Rugby has a greater appeal and following in the wider community.
Club rugby is highly commercialised and players are chasing money.
Hopping clubs from time to time.
The loyalty, passion and tradition no longer exists.
Unlike the 40s 50s, & 60s
In the 50s and 60s players purchased their boots and attire. Not any more
The clubs during the weekends and public holidays switches into unofficial Pub, Sports bar ( Watering Hole ) for members only.
Sadly the Clifford Cup has lost its luster
Note, the humble brown timber caravan, on wheels, the original club rooms in 1930/40s. I presume.
Havelocks in terms of facilities pales into insignificance compared to the CR & FC.
Joe
Reporting from Colombo
9 April 23
