The frustration among fans was so palpable that demonstrations were organized right in front of the SLC facilities,
Sri Lankan cricket has been thrown into a bit of turmoil following the national team’s significant loss to India in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023. In response to the defeat and public outrage, the government decided to take action against Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). board.
The heavy defeat against India, by a huge margin of 302 runs, raised concerns and called for the resignation of the SLC board, headed by Shammi Silva. The frustration was so palpable that demonstrations were organized just outside the SLC facility, with protesters demanding that the current administration resign.
Furthermore, the situation escalated to the point where riot police had to be deployed to protect the SLC headquarters.
In the midst of this cricket crisis, Sri Lankan Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe intervened and appointed a seven-member interim committee, with former World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga at the helm. This decision was made under the authority of the Sports Law No. 25 of 1973.
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New SLC Committee
The newly formed committee includes not only cricket personalities but also three retired judges, two of whom are women, underlining the emphasis on diverse perspectives. Apart from Arjuna Ranatunga, former SLC president Upali Dharmadasa is part of this committee.
Interestingly, this is not the first time that Arjuna Ranatunga has headed an interim committee for Sri Lanka cricket. In 2008, he played a similar role during a challenging period for the sport. Ranatunga has been openly critical of the current SLC administration, and his return to the helm signifies the government’s determination to address concerns surrounding Sri Lanka cricket.
Shammi Silva, who had been SLC chief since May, securing his third consecutive term that was supposed to last until 2025, is now facing this uncertain situation. The government’s intervention is aimed at bringing stability and a new perspective to Sri Lankan cricket, ensuring that the sport continues to thrive and represent the nation effectively on the world stage.
The committee will be tasked with charting a new path for the sport in the country and addressing the issues that sparked public outcry and discontent following the national team’s recent defeat.
