Sri Lanka's Minister of Sports, Roshan Ranasinghe, has taken the initiative to address concerns related to the national cricket board by individually communicating with all full member countries of the International Cricket Council (ICC). In a press release issued today, the Sports Ministry has accused Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) of misleading the international cricket governing body by insinuating that political interference has plagued their organization.

In his correspondence with the ICC members, Minister Ranasinghe emphasized the necessity of implementing "interim measures" against SLC. He assured that these measures are solely intended to establish good governance principles, uphold the rule of law, and foster a system of governance that promotes ethics and the spirit of the game.

Minister Ranasinghe pointed out that Sri Lankan cricket has witnessed a gradual decline in both the international and local quality of play since 2015. SLC has faced numerous complaints, including player disciplinary issues, management corruption, financial misconduct, and match-fixing allegations.

The minister also highlighted the political crises and natural disasters that have hindered action against the cricket board in the past, despite several previous ministers initiating inquiries into SLC's alleged misconduct. These inquiries resulted in numerous reports substantiating the claims against SLC officials.

Recent revelations and audit reports from the independent Auditor General's Department have prompted the need for immediate intervention. Minister Ranasinghe stressed the importance of bringing individuals involved in financial crimes before the legal system and establishing good governance and transparency in the administration of Sri Lanka Cricket.

Furthermore, Ranasinghe expressed concerns about SLC's management, citing significant losses incurred by the country. Injuries to key players during a cricket league held just a month before the World Cup have had a major impact on the national team's performance.

Responding to SLC's claims of political interference, Minister Ranasinghe clarified that his involvement was strictly related to addressing financial misconduct within the cricket board. He vehemently denied any interference in the operations of Sri Lanka Cricket by himself or any governmental authority.

Minister Ranasinghe also raised objections to ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and CEO Geoff Allardice, who had requested SLC's endorsement for the committee members appointed to investigate the alleged misconduct of cricket board officials.