In a dramatic turn of events, the Sri Lankan cricket crisis has taken center stage as the government and opposition join forces to bring a joint proposal aimed at removing the office bearers of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). This latest development follows the Lankan Lions’ dismal performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, particularly their abysmal display against India, where they were bundled out for just 55 runs in a chase of 358.
The proposal, set to be debated in Parliament, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing turmoil within Sri Lanka Cricket. The vote on the proposal is scheduled for the evening, and the outcome is eagerly awaited as the nation grapples with the aftermath of a disappointing World Cup campaign.
Prasanna Ranatunga, Sri Lankan minister and Chief government whip, emphasized the collaborative effort, stating, “Sri Lanka Government and Opposition to bring the joint proposal to Parliament to remove SLC office bearers. Debate it in Parliament today and put it to vote in the evening.” This move underscores the urgency felt by both sides of the political spectrum to address the cricketing crisis.
The Sports Minister, Roshan Ranasinghe, had previously appointed an interim committee, led by Arjuna Ranatunga, to oversee Sri Lanka Cricket, a decision that faced resistance from President Ranil Wickremesinghe. The President objected to the appointment, warning that politicizing the cricket board could lead to Sri Lanka losing its membership in the International Cricket Council (ICC).
In response to the appointment of the interim committee, the Sri Lanka Court of Appeal issued an interim order suspending the operation of the Gazette related to the cricket governing body’s Interim Committee. This order, valid for 14 days, came after a writ petition brought by SLC President Shammi Silva, further complicating the administrative landscape of Sri Lanka Cricket.
The internal power struggle within the cricket board has reached a critical juncture, with Sports Minister Ranasinghe expressing his readiness to resign rather than remove the interim committee. The deepening crisis, fueled by the team’s dismal World Cup performance, has captured public attention and stirred outrage.
Sri Lanka’s disastrous 302-run loss to India prompted widespread discontent, with the team currently languishing at number nine in the standings, having lost six of the eight matches played in the World Cup. With hopes of qualification for the ICC Champions Trophy hanging in the balance, Sri Lanka faces a pivotal match against New Zealand on Thursday.
As the political and administrative turmoil unfolds, cricket fans in Sri Lanka and around the world are left wondering about the impact of these developments on the future of the sport in the country. The joint proposal to remove SLC office bearers adds another layer of complexity to an already tumultuous situation, leaving the cricketing fraternity on the edge of their seats.
