Sri Lanka Cricket Board Under Pressure, Government Moves Toward New Administration

Sri Lanka’s government has indicated a major administrative overhaul in the country’s cricket board. An official said the board’s executive committee has been urged to step down by the end of this week.

Although it is the country’s wealthiest sporting body, Sri Lanka Cricket has long faced criticism over allegations of corruption and mismanagement. The board is currently led by four-time president Shammi Silva.

An official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said an interim administration will be formed, headed by a former investment banker. The move, he added, is a response to growing public anger.

Sri Lanka’s disappointing performance in the recent T20 World Cup has further intensified the situation. Despite being one of the hosts, the team made an early exit from the tournament.

Earlier, in November 2023, the International Cricket Council suspended Sri Lanka’s membership over allegations of political interference. However, the suspension was lifted at the end of January 2024.