COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s government took temporary control of the island nation’s cricket board on Wednesday, appointing a nine-member interim administration tasked with implementing structural reforms, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced.
The move comes after years of corruption and mismanagement allegations against Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the country’s wealthiest sporting body. The ministry stated that all administrative functions of SLC would be “temporarily brought under” its authority, effective immediately.
Interim Leadership Appointed
Former investment banker and opposition politician Eran Wickramaratne was named to lead the interim board. The government’s appointees also include former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara and former Test players Sidath Wettimuny and Roshan Mahanama.
The ministry said the interim committee will “address the current issues in cricket and implement structural reforms,” though it did not specify a timeline for the temporary takeover.
Resignation of Previous Leadership
Four-time SLC president Shammi Silva resigned on Tuesday, along with his entire committee, clearing the way for government intervention. Silva’s tenure had been marked by ongoing disputes and governance concerns.
Sri Lanka’s national team suffered an early exit from the T20 World Cup, which it co-hosted with India in February-March, adding to the pressure for change.
International Context
The International Cricket Council (ICC) previously suspended Sri Lanka for two months in 2023-2024, citing political interference in the board’s operations. The global governing body has been contacted for comment on the latest developments.
The government’s takeover questions about potential future ICC sanctions, as the council has historically opposed political meddling in member boards. The interim administration’s ability to restore stability and credibility will be closely watched by the cricketing world.
