Minister of Sports Harin Fernando signed a new gazette notification, officially revoking the decision to appoint an Interim Committee for Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). The move is part of a concerted effort to lift the suspension imposed by the International Cricket Committee (ICC) on the national governing body of the sport.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Minister Fernando announced the decision, highlighting its importance in addressing the ICC's concerns. He expressed optimism about resolving the matter and restoring normalcy to the operations of SLC.
In addition to the gazette notification, Minister Fernando revealed that he had reached out to the ICC, seeking their observations on the Auditor General’s report concerning the national cricket body. He has also initiated communication with the Attorney General’s Department, indicating a proactive approach towards future actions.
The controversy began on Nov.06 when a seven-member Interim Committee was appointed by the then-Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe. Chaired by World Cup-winning former Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga, the committee faced immediate legal challenges. On the following day, the Appeals Court issued a 14-day stay order, responding to a writ application filed by SLC President Shammi Silva.
Despite efforts by the ousted Sports Minister Ranasinghe to lift the stay order on Nov.13, the political landscape took a turn on Nov.27. President Ranil Wickremesinghe removed Ranasinghe from all his positions, including Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, and Minister of Irrigation. In a subsequent swearing-in ceremony, Harin Fernando assumed the role of the new Minister of Sports, inheriting the challenge posed by the suspended Interim Committee.
Minister Fernando's latest actions signify a determined effort to navigate the complex legal and administrative hurdles surrounding SLC, signaling a renewed commitment to the integrity and stability of Sri Lanka's cricket governance.
