The internal politics and administration of Sri Lanka Cricket is set for a sweeping change after the board announced a massive reduction in votes, from 147 to 60. What is noteworthy is that this decision was made by the voting members, meaning that the voting body used its own votes reducing the size of the same body to 59%.
These events took place on the sidelines of an extraordinary general meeting of the SLC on Friday, during which the SLC membership “approved significant amendments to the Constitution of the SLC, reaffirming its commitment to promote good governance, transparency, inclusivity and efficiency in its management structure” to be confirmed”. For the board’s own release.
However, it is likely that broader political changes within Sri Lanka may have influenced this vote. Recent elections focused on issues of good governance and tackling corruption. In the 21st century, the SLC has been viewed in Sri Lanka as one of the most dysfunctional institutions in the country, as well as one in which substantial wheeling-and-dealing takes place.
The board’s release said the new amendment aims to optimize the decision-making capacity of the SLC.
“The new voting structure ensures that voting rights are determined solely on the basis of the level of cricket played by each member club, with all eligible clubs and associations entitled to only one vote. This ensures equal representation and streamlined decision-making. This is an important step forward.”
Several sports ministers, former cricketers and interim heads of the SLC had long spoken about the need for changes in the constitution. In fact a group of concerned citizens, including former players, petitioned the Sri Lankan courts in early 2021 for changes to the SLC constitution. But it was always considered highly unlikely for members of the Governing Body to vote against their own self-interest.
However, changes in Sri Lanka’s political environment have made such voting possible.
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