Colombo, Sri Lanka – 30 September 2026 – A significant legislative overhaul is on the horizon for Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) as the Parliament prepares to introduce a new Bill aimed at completely reforming its governance structure. The announcement was made during a recent meeting of the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Youth Affairs and Sports, chaired by the Hon. Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage.
Sweeping Changes for Cricket Administration
The proposed legislation, currently being prepared for gazetting and presentation to Parliament, seeks to usher in a new era of transparency and accountability for the nation’s most popular sport. A key highlight of the impending Bill is the inclusion of independent directors within the cricket governance structure, a move long advocated by stakeholders seeking greater impartiality in decision-making.
Furthermore, the Bill will redefine the operational model for grassroots cricket associations. Under the new framework, District Cricket Associations will no longer engage directly in decision-making with Sri Lanka Cricket. Instead, their functions will be channeled and coordinated through Provincial Cricket Associations, streamlining communication and potentially enhancing regional development initiatives.
Boosting School Cricket and Professional Standards
The Committee meeting also shed light on the substantial investment in youth cricket, with Sri Lanka Cricket reportedly allocating Rs. 900 million annually, along with essential equipment, to support school cricket programmes across the island. This commitment underscores the focus on nurturing future talent from an early age.
In a bid to professionalise the sport further, plans are also underway, in consultation with the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, to formalise the recruitment process for coaches and refine the player selection methodology. This initiative aims to establish clear, merit-based pathways for athletes and coaching staff, minimizing potential biases.
Broad Reforms Across National Sports
Beyond cricket, the Ministerial Consultative Committee addressed broader issues within the national sports landscape. Progress was reviewed on implementing recommendations from the Auditor General concerning various sports associations. It was noted that 33 associations have successfully completed the stipulated recommendations, with reports pending for an additional 33.
In a significant directive for public welfare, the Ministry announced the immediate suspension of fees levied for the use of walking tracks and sports complexes by the public for health and exercise activities. This decision reinforces the Ministry’s policy that sports facilities are to be maintained as a government responsibility for the promotion of national health and community welfare, rather than as profit-making ventures.
Infrastructure development remains a priority, with plans to provide at least one synthetic running track in every province. The next such track is scheduled for construction in Anuradhapura, addressing the current scarcity, as only two synthetic tracks presently exist in the country. Discussions also encompassed the development of sports facilities in regions such as Ampara District, Weber Stadium in Batticaloa, the Hingurakgoda Sports Complex, improvements in Hali-Ela (Badulla), and resolving issues at the Bandaragama Public Grounds in Kalutara.
Fairness in National Team Selection and Funding
The Committee also reiterated the government’s commitment to equitable practices in international sports representation. It was confirmed that government funds for international competitions would only be provided for official national teams representing Sri Lanka and for officially recognised international tournaments. Furthermore, a strict policy of non-discrimination based on race or region will be adhered to when selecting national teams or facilitating participation in overseas competitions.
The meeting saw the attendance of Hon. Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Dinidu Saman Hennayake, other Deputy Ministers, Hon. Members of Parliament, officials from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and members of the Transformation Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket, highlighting the collaborative effort towards these crucial reforms.
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