This decision comes as a response to Sri Lanka Cricket being in serious breach of its obligations as an ICC member, particularly related to the requirement of managing its affairs autonomously and preventing government interference in the governance, regulation, and administration of cricket in Sri Lanka.
The specific conditions of the suspension will be determined by the ICC, with a board meeting scheduled for November 21. This meeting will shed light on the future course of action.
The situation escalated when Sri Lanka’s sports minister dismissed the entire cricket board on Monday, replacing it with an interim committee led by former World Cup winner Arjuna Ranatunga, which also included individuals with political affiliations. However, the courts intervened on Tuesday, overturning the decision and reinstating the old cricket board.
Under Sri Lanka’s sports law, the government has the authority to dissolve the governing body of any sport. However, the ICC has historically disapproved of such government interference, dating back to 2014 when a similar situation occurred in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Cricket has refuted government allegations, including mishandling preparations for the upcoming Under-19 Cricket World Cup and accusations of transferring $2 million from its accounts to third-party accounts. The situation remains fluid, with the ICC’s decision pending further discussions.