Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) vehemently denied recent allegations made by the SJB (Samagi Jana Balawegaya) leadership in Parliament concerning communication between SLC and the International Cricket Council (ICC).
In a statement dated November 19, SLC clarified that there is a misapprehension and misinterpretation of the referenced letter.
As a Full Member of the ICC, SLC is obligated to adhere to ICC articles of association and inform the ICC of any difficulties in meeting these obligations, the statement read, adding that interference by the Sports Minister, Mr. Roshan Ranasinghe, in SLC’s governance and operations prompted concerns, leading SLC to bring the matter to the attention of the ICC.
It further noted that the ICC took actions, including issuing warnings and appointing a committee to monitor political interference. Despite warnings, the Sports Minister continued to interfere, appointing individuals and circulating confidential information to the ICC.
In response, the ICC stated it would not recognise any interim committees appointed by the Sports Minister and would only recognise duly elected SLC office bearers. SLC’s suspension was a result of continuous interference, not a miscommunication, as alleged by the SJB Leader, the statement emphasised.
SLC further urged a thorough understanding of international sports association dynamics before making baseless accusations and statements lacking merit.
