Sri Lanka Cricket committee meets ICC deputy chair amid overhaul
Colombo, May 19
Sri Lanka Cricket's newly appointed transformation committee has held what members described as cordial and constructive talks with ICC deputy chair Imran Khwaja, as the global cricket body weighs its response to the government-driven overhaul of Sri Lanka Cricket, according to ESPNcricinfo.
Khwaja, who visited Sri Lanka over the past few days, met members of the newly formed committee and also held discussions with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The government had installed the committee after removing the previous SLC administration.
Committee member Sidath Wettimuny said the new administrators remain optimistic that the ICC will continue to recognise SLC as a regular Full Member.
The ICC, however, has previously taken action against SLC over concerns of government interference. In 2023, the board was suspended, citing extensive government interference, while in 2015, the ICC froze funding after an interim committee was appointed by the then-Sri Lankan government.
The current committee has maintained that its primary objective is to reform SLC's outdated constitution before paving the way for fresh elections and a new administration.
So far, the ICC has not publicly commented on the latest changes within SLC.
The nine-member committee, officially announced on April 30, includes former Sri Lanka captains Kumar Sangakkara, Roshan Mahanama and Wettimuny.
The panel is largely made up of representatives from corporate, legal and political backgrounds, and is chaired by former parliamentarian Eran Wickramaratne.
"Our immediate priority is a total overhaul of the governance framework at SLC," Wettimuny had said after the committee members were named, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
"The cornerstone of this effort will be the implementation of the new constitution, ensuring it serves as a robust, modern foundation for the sport," Wettimuny added.
Wickramaratne had earlier said the committee's second key focus would be ensuring excellence on the field. "We will focus on establishing the structures, world-class facilities, and incentive models necessary to empower our national teams. Our goal is to enable our players to consistently deliver world-class performances and elevate Sri Lanka back to the top tier of international rankings."
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good to see ICC engaging constructively. But the real test is whether SLC can implement the new constitution without political interference. Sri Lankan cricket has so much talent - they deserve better administration.
The committee has big names but I'm skeptical about how much can change. Government interference has been a recurring issue. Let's hope this transformation committee actually delivers results on the ground.
As an Indian cricket fan, I love watching Sri Lanka play. Their team has given us so many memorable matches! Hope this overhaul brings back the golden days of Lankan cricket. 🏏
The inclusion of corporate and legal experts is a smart move. Cricket boards need professional management, not political appointments. Sri Lanka must learn from India's BCCI model of structural stability.
The focus on world-class facilities is crucial. Sri Lankan players have natural talent but lack proper infrastructure. Let's hope this committee walks the talk. Also appreciate the ICC being patient this time.
Honestly, I'm worried about the timing. The ICC has been strict about government interference before. One wrong move and Sri Lanka could face another suspension. They need to tread carefully while pushing reforms.
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