2.   The current structure of SLC is designed to benefit a specific group, giving them control over all aspects of cricket. This has hindered others with expertise and desire to participate in cricket administration.

3.   Hence, it is crucial to revamp the entire cricket structure through vital administrative changes and constitutional revisions. The present scenario allows the current group with unbridled power to pursue their objectives with unlimited control over financial matters. Consequently, their full support cannot be anticipated in enacting substantial reforms for a transparent, independent, and fair administration of cricket based on skill and merit, as it would be disadvantageous to the beneficiaries of the existing state of affairs.

4.   Therefore, the most suitable approach for carrying out these changes is through the passing of a new law introducing a revised constitution for SLC, as detailed in the report.

5.   The Chitrasiri Committee has presented a commendable initial draft of the legislation, which the report felt could form the basis for the proposed law. The Sabry Committee agrees with the draft’s framework, which includes the following key points-

(i) Members of the Executive Committee (ExCo) will work on an honorary basis, with reasonable compensation for expenses.

(ii) The Board will be responsible for policy decisions, while executive decisions will be made by a qualified technocrat appointed as the Chief Executive Officer.

(iii) The Board will function similar to a corporate entity, with independent committees overseeing auditing, procurement, remuneration and other relevant matters, and reporting to the Board.

6.   Recommends hiring of a dedicated, full-time Director of Cricket to oversee all cricket-related matters, including maintaining the provincial structure; managing coaching staff and players; coordinating the selection committee; and executing the cricket plan developed by the TAC, which is appointed by the Minister of Sports in consultation with SLC’s Cricket Committee. The proposed plan must be submitted to the ExCo of SLC for their approval. The ExCo should not withhold its approval without valid and substantial reasons.

7.   The Director Cricket will execute the cricket plan according to guidance given by the TAC and the Cricket Committee of SLC. It is important to regularly assess performance to ensure that goals are being met, and to make necessary adjustments if they are not.

8.   Recommends hiring the Chitrasiri Committee members as consultants to create an initial constitution for SLC, using their draft as a basis. Before completing the draft, it is suggested that they seek additional feedback from stakeholders, especially respected former international players.

9.   Suggests the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs engages in discussions with the ICC regarding the main goal of this initiative, which is to create a fair and transparent management system at SLC. This will not only improve cricket in Sri Lanka but also have a positive influence on global cricket. By taking this step, it may be feasible to gain the full support and approval of the ICC to carry out these reforms.

10.          Recommends that the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs works diligently to convince SLC to cooperate with these essential changes, which are crucial for enhancing the reputation and approval of SLC among all stakeholders and the public.

11.          It is important for the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs to work with the ICC to make improvements. It is important to recognise that Sri Lanka plays cricket, not due to the existence of ICC, but that the ICC exists because nations like Sri Lanka play cricket. The ICC needs to focus on the wellbeing of cricket in Sri Lanka rather than the agendas of a small group of individuals with influence over SLC.

12.          The data clearly shows that SLC has encountered major difficulties in creating a fair and widely accepted framework for governing SLC without bias or favouritism. This situation has prevailed since 1996. The frequent appointment of interim committees emphasises the need for a permanent solution to this ongoing problem, which has caused distress and disrespect to both cricket and the country.

13.          The Ministry of Sports should carry out the constitutional reforms mentioned, regardless of whether they receive support or assistance from the ICC. This action will definitively resolve the issue, as was done in India through the Supreme Court and in South Africa through the intervention of the Minister of Sports.

14.          After the laws are put into effect and the administration is established through
Sri Lanka’s existing laws, there is no valid reason for the ICC to reject the recognition of such an administration to govern SLC. Notably, in Pakistan, the Prime Minister holds sway over the selection of the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and the ICC has acknowledged these provisions within the legal framework.

15.          Upon the enactment of the law, a temporary committee may be selected for a defined period with clear goals. This committee should be tasked with the specific duty of executing the required changes and organising the elections in compliance with the new law.

16.          The interim committee should comprise five members, with a corporate executive leading the team, accompanied by two individuals proficient in accounting and law. Two former cricketers with international experience, preferably representing Sri Lanka, should also be included. It is important to ensure that no member of the committee has a conflict of interest. These measures aim to promote accountability, transparency, and good governance within the operations of SLC.

17.          Competent technocrats should be given the responsibility to formulate and carry out detailed plans for the development of the sport. This can be achieved through the collaboration of a Technical Advisory Committee, the Cricket Committee of SLC, and all other relevant parties. The Director Cricket of SLC should oversee the execution of the plan to ensure its success.

18.          The plans should detail the organisation of cricket tournaments at the provincial, club and age levels, as well as address player management matters such as fitness requirements, contracts, ethics, and performance standards. It is important to regularly review these plans to ensure they are being implemented effectively.

19.          After consulting with stakeholders and reaching an agreement, it is imperative that these plans are executed with unwavering efficiency, free from the influence of parties with hidden agendas and personal interests, including traditional and social media.

20.          It is evident that there is a lack of shared goals among the players, coaches, selectors and administrators, leading to a tendency to blame each other rather than taking collective responsibility for both successes and failures. There is also a noticeable lack of communication among these different groups. Therefore, it is important to establish a dedicated framework for regular consultations, discussions, reviews, and understanding of plans among the various stakeholders. This will help resolve differences and enable them to move forward as a unified entity.

21.          To ensure good governance and transparency, the report suggests adopting recommended practices from BASL, CIMA, KPMG, and the Chartered Institute of Sri Lanka in the management of SLC. This involves setting up independent committees to monitor performance and creating guidelines for budget allocation and procurement that adhere to international standards. It advises the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs to invite these institutions to collaborate in developing guidelines for SLC’s management.

22.          Recommends that the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs makes changes to the Sports Law and Regulations in line with the proposed amendments. It proposes bringing in Mr. Jagath Fernando as a consultant, as he has already made valuable voluntary contributions in this area. “We believe that his ideas, which emphasise qualifications for holding offices, term limits, disclosure of conflicts of interest, and monitoring by the Auditor General, should be included in the legislation to ensure good governance in Administration,” it states.

23.          The Auditor General (AG) has highlighted issues in Sri Lanka Cricket in their reports from May 2018, October 2019, and September 2023. Despite these reports, no further actions were taken, as mentioned in the evidence. It’s proposed that, in line with Sports Law, the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs should establish a three-member committee to thoroughly review the AG’s findings and take necessary actions.

24.          Recommends asking the Attorney General’s Department to further investigate and take appropriate actions about the audit report.

Effective player management

25.          All cricketing decisions should be made based on the plan drawn up by the TAC in collaboration with the Cricket Committee of SLC. Implementation should be through the Director Cricket of SLC.

26.          Developing cricket should prioritise a holistic approach to player management, covering skill enhancement, physical fitness, psychological well-being, mentoring, dietary need and overall personal growth. Tailored plans should be designed for each contracted player and consistently monitored to optimize their performance.

27.          Recommends making all recruitments, including coaches, support staff, medical personnel, physiotherapists and curators, through a merit-based competitive selection process.

28.          Recommends establishing a comprehensive Code of Conduct and Ethics for players, along with a specific Social Media Code of Conduct. This is to discourage personal social media usage that might negatively impact them during tournaments and matches.

29.          Recommends adherence to nutritional guidelines and the establishment of a mentoring framework. To oversee and manage these plans effectively, regular meetings should be scheduled and held.

30.          Proposes to implement a thorough plan to support Under-19 cricket players, ensuring their sustained involvement in the cricket system for an extended period. The report urges SLC to explore the possibility of offering contracts to these players after they finish schooling or Under-19 cricket. This initiative aims to sustain and foster their cricketing careers.

Infrastructure and feeding system

31.          The TAC in collaboration with the Cricket Committee of SLC should develop a strategy for cricket development across all formats and age groups, collaborating with stakeholders such as the Director Cricket, coaching staff, selectors and administration.

32.          A substantial share of SLC’s annual budget should be allocated to cricket development. This allocation should prioritise enhancing player performance by investing in High Performance Centres, top-notch training facilities and competitive turf pitches.

33.          School cricket should be conserved and reinvigorated at all levels. SLC needs to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs and the school cricket advisors appointed by the President to devise and execute a strong plan to accomplish these aims effectively.

34.          Recommends reforming the club cricket structure, advocating for the reinstatement of a two-tier divisional structure that includes provisions for clubs to move up or down based on their performance, integrating promotion and relegation systems.

35.          Recommends an overhaul and reinforcement of the provincial cricket structure. It should include the best players from domestic, U-19, Emerging, and ‘A’ team in provincial tournaments. The report proposes exploring the feasibility of organising the provincial tournament with 4 or 5 teams at international venues. This move could potentially attract sponsorship from renowned Sri Lankan or foreign businesses, ensuring the sustainability of both the teams and the tournament.

36.          The current performance of provincial and district squads should be reviewed. A system should be introduced to unearth talent and to enlist them to provincial or national teams. Moreover, a structured system connecting players from school-level cricket to the national team should be established.

37.          Recommends maintaining squads across various age groups and genders. International fixtures should be planned ahead of time to ensure players are available, rested and in good shape for all tournaments.

38.         The report endorses the players’ proposal to reintroduce specialised clinics dedicated to fast bowling, spin bowling, and other specific skills. This initiative aims to create a well-organised system for nurturing talent geared towards the national team.

39.         Recommends that the proposed TAC (to be appointed by the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, or any other relevant authority overseeing the provincial, district, or club tournament structure) carefully considers the detailed plans previously prepared by the former TAC and shared with the committee Mr. Aravinda De Silva, to effectively revamp the system.