In a recent development, ICC has decided to shift the Under-19 World Cup from Sri Lanka to South Africa due to administrative disruption within Sri Lanka Cricket. The decision was taken during the ICC Board meeting in Ahmedabad, where it was also decided to maintain the suspension of Sri Lanka cricket, which was initially imposed on November 10.
Former ICC chairman Sammy Silva, who was removed from the post, attended the board meeting held at ITC Narmada in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, November 21. The Under-19 World Cup was initially scheduled for 14 January to 15 February, but these dates were postponed. The conflict coincided with the second edition of SA20, taking place from 10 January to 10 February. Cricket South Africa (CSA) assured that both events could be held simultaneously, as the T20 league is overseen independently of CSA.
South Africa Emerging as the preferred choice for the Under-19 World Cup due to better infrastructure, CSA committed three venues for the multi-nation championship. Despite the suspension of the SLC, the ICC Board decided that the Sri Lankan team would continue to participate in international cricket, with funding controlled by the suspended SLC.
“It was the unanimous decision of the board that the suspension cannot be lifted. Cricket will continue as normal in the country,” a source told Cricbuzz.
Silva expressed his desire for uninterrupted cricket in the country and said that he has requested the ICC board to allow the game to continue and the board members have well-honored his request.
“I have requested the ICC Board to allow play to continue and the members have upheld our request,” Silva told Cricbuzz.
The move to South Africa ensures a smooth transition to the Under-19 World Cup, giving cricket fans the much-awaited tournament. As cricket progresses in Sri Lanka, the ICC is committed to maintaining the spirit of the game despite administrative uncertainties.
