SLC accuses Interim Committee of removing vital documents, threatens legal action

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya

COLOMBO (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said today that members of the Interim Committee, who were briefly in operation after their appointments, have removed vital project-related payment vouchers and documentation from the SLC premises. 

The SLC said that if these materials are not returned immediately, the SLC will be compelled to initiate legal action against those responsible.

Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe said yesterday that SLC officials had written cheques amounting to billions of rupees during the last few days expecting that an interim committee would be appointed

The Minister told Parliament that the lights of the Dambulla International Cricket Stadium had been changed in a hurry at a cost of Rs. 1.5 billion during the last few days. He also said there is a risk of important documents at SLC being misplaced.

Responding to the claims, SLC said the Minister of Sports under the cover of parliamentary privileges had made false, malicious and misleading information.

Firstly, it is imperative to note that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has entrusted Sri Lanka with the honor of hosting the ICC Under 19 World Cup in 2024.

This prestigious event is scheduled to commence in January 2024, and Sri Lanka Cricket is diligently working towards its successful execution, the SLC statement stated.

Preparations for this globally recognized tournament are well underway, with ICC representatives closely supervising the overall planning and execution. They are actively collaborating with SLC to ensure that the tournament is conducted in compliance with international standards.

"As part of its responsibilities, SLC is entrusted with the provision of match venues that align with the ICC's stringent standards. In pursuit of this goal, we have taken significant measures to improve the infrastructure at selected grounds. The funds, received as grants from the ICC and specifically designated for these enhancements, are solely dedicated to the development of facilities in preparation for the Under 19 World Cup in 2024.

"Furthermore, SLC wishes to clarify that the installation of floodlights and associated infrastructure at the Dambulla International Cricket Ground is in response to longstanding requirements. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the ground's facilities to meet ICC venue standards.

"The said project began to accommodate the Asia Cup 2023; however, due to import restrictions in place at the time, it could not be completed in time for that event. A public tender for this project was carried out a few months ago, and the process was closely monitored by a Ministry Representative throughout. The project was awarded
in accordance with government-approved tender processes," the SLC said.