Dubai, Nov 10: In a decisive move, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the suspension of Sri Lanka Cricket’s full membership on Friday, citing concerns over government interference in the national board. The decision followed a tumultuous week in Sri Lankan cricket.
The trigger for the suspension was a unanimous resolution passed by the Sri Lankan parliament on Thursday, demanding the removal of the country’s cricket governing body. Both ruling and opposition parties threw their support behind the resolution, leading to heightened tensions within the cricketing community.
“The ICC Board has suspended Sri Lanka Cricket’s membership of the ICC with immediate effect,” stated the ICC in an official release. The Board expressed its determination that Sri Lanka Cricket had breached its obligations as an ICC Member, particularly in failing to manage its affairs autonomously and prevent government interference in the governance, regulation, and administration of cricket in the country.
The specifics of the suspension’s conditions will be determined by the ICC Board in the coming days, according to the statement.
The controversy in Sri Lankan cricket unfolded against the backdrop of the national team’s disappointing performance in the ongoing World Cup in India. With only two wins from nine games, Sri Lanka failed to advance to the semifinals, sparking public outrage and calls for a change in leadership.
The resolution presented in the Sri Lankan parliament, titled ‘the removal of the corrupt SLC (Sri Lanka Cricket) management,’ was spearheaded by the main opposition party leader, Sajith Premadasa. Senior government minister Nimal Siripala de Silva seconded the resolution, leading to its unanimous approval.
The parliamentary move came on the heels of a series of events that saw the SLC management undergo multiple changes. Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe initially dismissed the management and appointed former World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga to lead a seven-member interim committee. However, the Court of Appeal reinstated the original SLC management, headed by Shammi Silva, just two days later.
As the parliamentary debate unfolded, security was heightened at the SLC headquarters, with police protection provided. Demonstrations near the headquarters attracted hundreds of people, all calling for the resignation of the cricket board’s management.
Criticism of the national team’s performance peaked after a dismal run chase against India in Mumbai, where Sri Lanka was bowled out for 55. The team had previously suffered a significant defeat to India in the Asia Cup final, being bowled out for 50 on September 17.
This marks the second instance of the ICC suspending a full member due to government interference, with Zimbabwe Cricket facing a similar fate in 2021. The ICC’s strict stance underscores its commitment to maintaining the autonomy of cricket boards and preserving the integrity of the sport.
The suspension has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, raising concerns about the stability of Sri Lanka’s cricket administration. Fans, players, and stakeholders are left in suspense as they await further details on the conditions and duration of the suspension.(Agencies)
