Sri Lanka Cricket Board Collapses Under Government Pressure

Fresh uncertainty has gripped Sri Lanka’s cricket administration after the entire executive committee resigned under government pressure, signaling a major shift in the country’s cricket governance.

At a special meeting on Tuesday, board president Shammi Silva announced the resignation of the full committee, despite having around 11 months remaining in his current term. A board official said the decision was taken to pave the way for the formation of an interim management structure.

It is understood that a former investment banker, who is also linked to opposition politics, may play a key role in the new leadership setup. Earlier over the weekend, Silva held discussions with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake regarding restructuring the board and introducing administrative reforms.

Sri Lanka Cricket has long been under criticism over allegations of corruption and administrative weaknesses. In November 2023, the International Cricket Council suspended the country’s membership citing political interference, before lifting the ban in January 2024.

On-field performances have further complicated the situation. Sri Lanka’s disappointing campaign in the recent T20 World Cup intensified calls for change within the system.

Although Silva had secured a fourth consecutive term unopposed, his resignation now signals the beginning of a new chapter for Sri Lanka cricket, with a focus on restoring credibility and stability through governance reforms.