Disappointment for Asia Rugby fans as match is cancelled

The concluding match of the Asia Rugby Emirates Men’s Championship has been cancelled and awarded as a 20-0 win to Korea.

The Sri Lanka team, who pushed RWC 2027 qualifiers Hong Kong China all the way in their opening fixture, losing 15-14, were unable to obtain the necessary travel visas required to enter Korea in time for Saturday’s match in Incheon.

Given the high level of that performance and the poor form of Korea, who have only won one of their last seven Tests, including a 45-9 defeat to Hong Kong China, the Tuskers would have been confident of claiming victory.

Unable to stage the match at a later date, Asia Rugby have decided to award the points to the host nation.

Asia Rugby said in a statement: “Asia Rugby regrets to announce that the final scheduled fixture of the Asia Rugby Emirates Men’s Championship 2026 between Korea and Sri Lanka, due to be played at Namdong Asiad Rugby Stadium in Incheon on Saturday, 13 June 2026, has been cancelled.

“The decision follows confirmation that the Sri Lanka national team was unable to obtain the necessary travel visas required to enter Korea in time for the match.

“Asia Rugby, together with Sri Lanka Rugby and Korea Rugby Union, explored a range of possible solutions to facilitate the fixture. However, despite the collective efforts of all parties, the visa process could not be completed within the required timeframe.

“Following an assessment of the international rugby calendar, travel requirements, venue availability, and team commitments, Asia Rugby has determined that there is currently no suitable window available to reschedule the fixture within the 2026 competition cycle.”

Having beaten both Sri Lanka and Korea, Hong Kong China had already secured their seventh consecutive Asia Rugby men’s title.