New Delhi, June 19: ICC President Jay Shah met with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Friday to discuss the current state of cricket in the country. The discussions focused on increasing opportunities for emerging players, strengthening grassroots and youth development programs, and utilizing the sport as a medium for social impact and economic growth.
Shah described the meeting with President Dissanayake as a significant occasion, emphasizing Sri Lanka‘s longstanding contributions to world cricket.
On social media platform X, Shah stated, “Meeting President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and discussing the current state of cricket in Sri Lanka was a special opportunity. Our conversation centered on enhancing opportunities for emerging players, supporting grassroots and youth development programs, and leveraging cricket for social impact and economic development.”
He further noted, “We also shared thoughts on Sri Lanka’s role in hosting major international events and contributing to the global growth of our sport. Sri Lanka holds a special place in cricket history. I look forward to working together to strengthen the game and create new opportunities for future generations. My heartfelt thanks to His Excellency for his time and unwavering support for cricket.”
The meeting between ICC President Shah and President Dissanayake comes at a delicate time for Sri Lankan cricket. Concerns are rising within the ICC regarding the appointment of an interim committee to manage Sri Lanka Cricket.
Sri Lanka’s Sports Minister Sunil Kumar Dissanayake established an interim committee in late April to oversee board affairs. This committee replaced the executive committee elected in 2025, which was led by Shammi Silva, whose term was set to last until May next year. This change has raised questions within the ICC, as the involvement of the government in the cricket board is seen as a violation of the national cricket institution’s autonomy and regulations.
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