In a major turnaround for Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially lifted the ban on the cricketing body, effective immediately. The ban, imposed on November 10, 2023, stemmed from violations of ICC membership obligations, particularly the requirement for autonomous management and the prevention of government interference in cricket affairs.
Suspension Details and Ongoing International Participation
On November 10, 2023, SLC found itself suspended by the ICC for failing to adhere to its autonomous management responsibilities. Despite the ban, the ICC Board, in a meeting on November 21, granted permission for Sri Lanka to continue participating in international cricket, including both bilateral series and ICC events. However, the hosting rights for the ongoing U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup were shifted from Sri Lanka to South Africa as a consequence of the suspension.
Monitoring and Satisfaction of Compliance
The ICC Board has diligently monitored the situation since the suspension, ensuring that SLC rectifies the breaches of membership obligations. With the latest decision to lift the ban, the ICC expresses satisfaction that Sri Lanka Cricket is now in compliance with the stipulated responsibilities for ICC members.
The ban imposed by the ICC on Sri Lanka Cricket in November 2023 has been lifted.https://t.co/qDPp8I2CM6
— ICC (@ICC) January 28, 2024
A New Chapter for Sri Lankan Cricket
The lifting of the ban not only marks the end of a challenging period for Sri Lanka Cricket but also opens up a new chapter of redemption and opportunity. The decision comes just in time for the Sri Lankan cricket team’s upcoming fixtures, allowing them to re-enter the international arena with renewed vigor.
Sri Lanka Cricket’s ban lift by the ICC signifies a positive stride toward cricketing normalcy for the island nation. As the cricketing world watches, Sri Lanka embarks on a journey of resurgence, ready to prove its mettle on the global stage. The cricketing fraternity eagerly anticipates witnessing the reinvigorated Sri Lankan team in action, underscoring the spirit of fair play and autonomy that the ICC upholds within the global cricketing community.