• Applications to be open to any former player 
• Selection criteria to be added to national sports regulation

An emergency meeting was held yesterday (30) at the National Sports Council (NSC) regarding the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Selection Committee debacle. The National Selection Committee, Sports Ministry, and NSC agreed to implement a transparent system when appointing the SLC Selection Committee, and to allow any former player to apply for membership in the committee. 

The meeting was held with the participation of Sports and Youth Minister Roshan Ranasinghe, Secretary of the Sports and Youth Ministry K. Mahesan, NSC Chairman Arjuna Ranatunge, Director General – Sports Development Amal Edirisuriya, National Sports Selection Committee Chairman Gen. Shavendra Silva, and other members of the NSC and National Sports Selection Committee. 

Speaking to The Daily Morning Sports, K. Mahesan said: “All parties, including the Sports Ministry and NSC, agreed upon setting a transparent system to select individuals for the SLC Selection Committee. We will shortly advertise publicly, informing former players of their eligibility to apply, and the Minister will also issue a gazette notification to amend sports regulations accordingly.” 

The Daily Morning Sports also contacted former cricketing legend Sanath Jayasuriya regarding the meeting. He said: “The Minister listened to everyone’s opinion at the meeting, and we all ultimately agreed to set up a system for anyone to apply to be selected. Criteria will be set to select the most suitable individuals for the role and these changes will be notified to the public sooner rather than later.” 

Complaints received from the players about the lack of facilities at the Khettarama Stadium, and the need for a swimming pool and several other facilities were also discussed at the meeting. As these issues must be resolved before the upcoming World Cup, it was decided to publish a newspaper advertisement through the Director General of the Sports Development Department and transparently select those who wish to appear for the Cricket Selection Committee.