In a bid to solve the web of political complexities surrounding Sri Lanka's cricket administration, ICC CEO Geoff Allardice recently embarked on a visit to meet with key figures in the country's government. This diplomatic move comes after the ICC suspended Sri Lanka Cricket's membership and revoked its hosting rights for the Men's Under-19 World Cup in November.
Allardice held discussions with Sri Lanka's new sports minister, Harin Fernando, and President Ranil Wickremesinghe. The aim was clear - to find a middle ground and pave the way for a resolution regarding Sri Lanka Cricket's (SLC) membership status. The suspension had been prompted by perceived government interference, particularly when the previous sports minister attempted to dismiss the entire SLC board.
Following the meeting, Minister Fernando took to X and shared that they had a constructive discussion and a way forward for SLC. The talks extended to President Wickremesinghe, where potential amendments to SLC's constitution were on the agenda.
Allardice is set to present his findings to the ICC board in their upcoming meeting at the end of March. The board will deliberate on the matter of SLC's membership, with hopes for a positive outcome given the changed political landscape in Sri Lanka.
This marks the second ICC executive visit to Sri Lanka for such purposes. In mid-2023, ICC deputy chair Imran Khwaja explored potential government interference but found no immediate grounds for suspension. Now, with a more favourable political climate and a minister aligned with SLC's interests, there is optimism within board circles that Sri Lanka will be reinstated as a full member in the imminent board meeting.
Now, moving forward, it will be interesting to see how Sri Lankan Cricket navigates through these testing times. It's crucial that cricket thrives in Sri Lanka for the global cricket community, given Sri Lanka's significance in the world of cricket. The cricketing world watches with bated breath as these diplomatic efforts unfold, signaling a potential end to the suspension saga and a return to normalcy for Sri Lanka Cricket.
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