Minister of Ports and Shipping Arjuna Ranatunga has sent a letter of demand to Deputy Speaker and President of Sri Lanka Cricket Thilanga Sumathipala, demanding Rs 1000 million as damages to his reputation.

He also informed that he will initiate legal action if the demand is not met within 14 days.

The recent dispute began on January 3, when Ranatunga hit out at Sumathipala, following the latter's victory at the Sri Lanka Cricket elections. Ranatunga said that the game of cricket has fallen under the control of a 'business-mafia'.

Sumathipala responded on the following day, leveling several allegations against Ranatunga. Sumathipala also vowed legal action.

Ranatunga responded several days later, refuting all allegations and reiterating his position that the game of cricket had fallen under the control of a 'business-mafia'.