Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) finds itself embroiled in a contentious situation as questions arise over the inclusion of popular actress Shalini Tharaka in the VIP touring entourage to Australia. The decision to take the actress on the cricket tour, along with other senior officials' close friends and family members, has raised eyebrows and sparked debates over transparency and accountability within the organization.

The contentious move came to light following the release of an Auditor General's Report that shed light on the extravagant spending and questionable practices within Sri Lanka Cricket. The report revealed that SLC Vice Chairman Jayantha Dharmandada was responsible for inviting Shalini Tharaka to accompany the cricket team on their tour to Australia. Opposition MP Hesha Withanage, in a press conference, highlighted the startling findings of the report, casting doubt on the legitimacy and reasoning behind the inclusion of non-cricket personnel on a professional cricket tour.

As per the Auditor General's Report, several high-ranking officials within Sri Lanka Cricket, including Chairman Shammi Silva, have similarly taken their close friends and family members on overseas cricket tours. This raises concerns about preferential treatment and potential misuse of resources meant for the development and promotion of cricket in the country.

MP Hesha Withanage's questioning of the purpose behind inviting an actress like Shalini Tharaka to advise players on cricket matters has ignited a public debate. Critics argue that such decisions divert the focus from the sport's core objectives and may not be in the best interest of the players or the game itself. They contend that cricket tours should primarily be about the team's performance, preparation, and representation of the country on the international stage.

In response to the mounting criticism, Sri Lanka Cricket has yet to provide a comprehensive explanation for the inclusion of non-cricket personnel on official tours. The lack of transparency and clear justifications has fueled further speculation and added to the public's frustration and disillusionment.