A recent Extraordinary Gazette signed by Sports Minister Harin Fernando effectively revokes the appointment of the Interim Committee for Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). The move, announced via X (formerly Twitter), intends to lift the suspension imposed by the International Cricket Committee (ICC) on SLC.
The Gazette, bearing reference No. 2356/43 dated November 05, 2023, has been rescinded, instantly dissolving the Interim Committee tasked with exercising SLC’s powers and functions.
Previously, on November 06, an Interim Committee comprising seven members was appointed by the then-Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe, chaired by former Sri Lankan cricket captain Arjuna Ranatunga. However, this move faced a legal challenge, resulting in a 14-day stay order issued by the Appeals Court following a writ application by SLC President Shammi Silva.
Amidst these developments, Minister Ranasinghe was removed from his positions, including Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, on November 27. Harin Fernando subsequently assumed the role of Minister of Sports.
In light of the situation, SLC decided to establish an independent committee to investigate audit reports and recommend measures to prevent corruption. This committee features retired Supreme Court Judges S. I. Imam and Rohini Marasinghe, along with retired High Court Judge Irangani Perera.
The recent Gazette’s revocation of the Interim Committee signals a potential shift in resolving the issues within SLC and addressing the suspension imposed by the ICC. The move aligns with the government’s efforts to ensure transparency and stability within the country’s cricket administration.
