The Lebanese Rugby League Federation has been forced to make a decision to withdraw its participation from the mid-season Test match which was to be played in Sydney this year. The decision is a result of negative publicity that has been generated in Australia by two stories published by the Sydney Morning Herald that were based on a letter signed by former Lebanon captain Chris Saab and his associate Michael Hedwan. That publicity led to a breakdown with the LRLF’s sponsors, without whom the organisation could not commit to the fixture.
LRLF general secretary Sami Garabedian said, “While we are disappointed for all the Cedars supporters in Lebanon and Australia who no doubt were looking forward to celebrating the team as part of the world cup legacy, this is the right decision for the LRLF and the sport.”
Garabedian continued, “We have, on a daily basis for almost two months, been dealing with the fall-out from the unsubstantiated claims of Mr Saab and Mr Hedwan that were irresponsibly reported and are continuing to take measures that will restore our good relations with partners and stakeholders. Despite some players choosing to boycott the Cedars, for reasons that have not been communicated to us, Lebanon would still have been able to field a strong side with at least five first graders, all of whom had lodged their commitment to play.”
The LRLF has consulted closely with the Lebanese Ministry of Youth and Sport and the Rugby League International Federation.
Garabedian added: “Our ongoing investigation has clearly established that a few individuals for their own personal reasons are attempting to disrupt the LRLF. These agitators have been asked on numerous occasions to produce a balanced and logical list of their complaints as well as provide any evidence to back up their grievances. No complaints have been lodged.
“While we are disappointed that this fixture will not be played we will now shift our focus to the next generation of future Cedars, those U20s, U18s, U16s and women players based in Australia, to prepare them, along with home grown players and the players from the current squad who have committed represent their country, for two world cups in 2021. We would like to thank the RLIF for their close support in this matter.”
