Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has made a landmark move to modernize its governance structure by implementing historic amendments to its constitution. The changes, which were overwhelmingly approved at an extraordinary general meeting held on December 20, 2024, are designed to create a more transparent, efficient, and inclusive framework for the country’s premier cricketing body.
The most significant of these amendments is the dramatic reduction in the number of voting members, from the previous 147 to just 60. This move is part of SLC’s commitment to streamline decision-making processes and ensure a more equitable representation of its member clubs. Under the revised system, voting rights will no longer be determined by the number of clubs within each provincial or regional cricketing body but will instead be allocated based on the level of cricket played. Every qualified club or association, regardless of its size, will have the right to cast a single vote. This new structure is aimed at ensuring that decisions are made by representatives who are actively involved in cricket at the grassroots and professional levels, promoting fairness and merit-based participation in the decision-making process.
In addition to the restructuring of voting rights, the SLC has also made significant strides in ensuring greater transparency and accountability within its financial operations. The membership has unanimously approved the formation of three key committees to oversee different aspects of financial governance: the Audit Committee, the Investment and Budget Committee, and the Related Party Transactions Committee. These committees are tasked with ensuring rigorous financial oversight and will play a crucial role in ensuring that the organization’s funds are managed responsibly and transparently. This move comes as part of a broader effort by SLC to align with international standards of corporate governance and improve its financial reporting and management practices.
The constitutional amendments reflect a broader vision for the future of Sri Lanka Cricket, with an emphasis on professionalism, meritocracy, and inclusivity. The changes are expected to foster a more dynamic and transparent environment for the development of the sport at all levels, from grassroots cricket to the national team. By reducing the number of voting members and establishing a more streamlined decision-making process, SLC aims to create a more effective governance model that can better support the growth of cricket in the country.
Another key development resulting from the extraordinary general meeting was the appointment of the Election Committee for the upcoming SLC elections, which will take place in 2025. The committee will be led by retired Court of Appeal Judge Ms. Malanie Gunaratne, who will oversee the election process. Alongside her, four additional members will be appointed to ensure the process remains transparent, fair, and in line with the new constitutional amendments. The Election Committee will be responsible for managing all aspects of the election, from preparing candidate lists to overseeing the conduct of the vote itself.
These constitutional changes are expected to revolutionize the governance of Sri Lanka Cricket and provide a foundation for a more structured and professional future for the sport. SLC officials have expressed confidence that the new system will not only improve internal management but will also have a positive impact on the overall development of cricket across Sri Lanka, from grassroots initiatives to the national team’s success on the global stage.
As Sri Lanka Cricket moves forward with these historic changes, the organization remains committed to fostering an inclusive and transparent environment that promotes the long-term growth of cricket and enhances the experience for all stakeholders involved.
