22 May 2018 01:55 pm
Jayantha Dharmadasa and Nishantha Ranatunga have tossed their hats on the ring to contest incumbent cricket chief Thilanga Sumathipala at its Annual General Meeting scheduled for May 31.
Also in the fray is Mohan de Silva, one of Sumathipala’s close associate, but he will withdraw if Sumathipala gets the greenlight. Sumathipala is alleged to have connections to the gaming and newspaper industries. He has repeatedly denied any involvement.
Dharmadasa’s entry is surprising, though Ranatunga’s entry was expected. Dharmadasa was part of the Sumathipala led group that defeated Ranatunga camp at the 2016 election. Under Sumathipala, Dharmadasa the senior was in charge of international cricket but resigned in May 2017 due to differences with the Sumathipala camp. Ranatunga has also submitted his nominations for the post of secretary--a post he enjoyed for many years before 2015.
Mohan de Silva and K. Mathivanan--the two incumbent vice presidents will be contested by Shammi Silva-- the current treasurer who has also given his nominations for the post of secretary and Hirantha Perera.
There are five candidates vying for the post of secretary but Bandula Dissanayake seems the preferred candidate of the Sumathipala camp.
Eastman Narangoda and Bandula Dissanayake will contest Shammi Silva for the post of Treasurer.