In a significant move, the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board has announced the suspension of Sri Lanka Cricket’s membership, effective immediately. The global governing body, in a concise press release, highlighted the gravity of the situation, citing serious breaches by Sri Lanka Cricket in fulfilling its obligations as an ICC Member.
The specific breach pointed out by the ICC relates to Sri Lanka Cricket‘s failure to manage its affairs autonomously, particularly in ensuring the absence of government interference in the governance, regulation, and administration of cricket within the country.
The conditions and ramifications of this suspension are yet to be determined, with the ICC Board set to make decisions on this matter in due course.
This development unfolds against the backdrop of a tumultuous World Cup campaign by the Sri Lankan cricket team, currently positioned at ninth in the 10-team standings after securing only two victories in nine matches.
Sri Lankan cricket has been embroiled in internal strife, exacerbated by the team’s performance. Earlier in the week, Sri Lankan Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe dismissed the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) management, appointing former World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga to lead a seven-member interim committee to govern the cricket board. However, this decision faced opposition and was subsequently overturned by the Court of Appeal.
Further complicating matters, the Sri Lankan parliament unanimously passed a resolution demanding the dismissal of SLC, drawing support from various political factions. This resolution, originating from the Sri Lankan parliament, appears to have triggered the ICC’s response.
It’s noteworthy that the ICC had previously suspended a full member two years ago when Zimbabwe Cricket faced suspension due to government interference.
The ramifications of Sri Lanka Cricket’s suspension from ICC membership raise questions about the future trajectory of cricket administration in the country and the potential impacts on international cricket engagements involving Sri Lanka. As the cricket world awaits further developments, this suspension marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing dynamics between cricket boards and government influences.