Sri Lanka government 'temporarily' takes over cricket board
The Sri Lankan government has temporarily taken over the administrative functions of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to facilitate structural reforms. The move follows allegations of corruption and poor management, as well as a suspension by the International Cricket Council due to political interference. Four-time SLC President Shammi Silva resigned along with his committee after the government intervention.
The Sri Lankan government has taken over the country's cricket board, stating it is a temporary measure to pave the way for 'structural reforms'.
'All administrative functions of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) will be temporarily transferred to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, effective from today,' the ministry said on Wednesday.
A committee will be appointed soon 'to address the current issues in cricket and implement structural reforms,' the ministry added.
SLC is the country's wealthiest sports body but has been plagued by allegations of corruption and poor management.
The global governing body, the International Cricket Council, suspended Sri Lanka for two months in 2023-2024, citing political interference in the board's operations.
Four-time SLC President Shammi Silva resigned on Tuesday, along with his entire committee, following government intervention.
Sri Lanka was eliminated early from the T20 World Cup, which the country co-hosted with India in February-March.
