Eran and Team to Convert SLC

Apr.30 (Mirror Sports) - Eran Wickremaratne, the new head of Sri Lanka Cricket, said his top priority would be to transform the administration of the sport into a professional and accountable set-up following his entry into the hot seat replacing Shammi Silva.

Working alongside Wickremaratne will be probably the most influential and reliable brand names in former Sri Lanka players Sidat Wettimuny, Roshan Mahanama and Kumar Sangakkara undoubtedly forming the vanguard of what is being called the Transformation Committee to pull out the administration of cricket from its current abyss.

“As a committee, we share a singular, sincere commitment to restore the pride and performance of Sri Lankan cricket. We will realise this vision through two fundamental pillars”, Wickremaratne a former Royal College, Tamil Union Cricket Club batter who also played cricket in England, said in a media statement.

“This team comprising Mr. Sidath Wettimuny, Mr. Roshan Mahanama, Mr. Kumar Sangakkara, Mr. Prakash Schaffter, Mr. Thushira Radella, Ms. Avanthi Colombage, Mr. Upul Kumarapperuma and Mr. Dinal Philips brings together a rare synthesis of cricketing excellence, corporate management and legal acumen. I am privileged to lead a nine-member committee of individuals with impeccable integrity and expertise”, he added in his statement.

Wickremaratne, who was once an Opposition Member of Parliament and said to be a man with a clean track record, revealed he accepted an invitation from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the Minister of Sports Sunil Gamage, to chair Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and overhaul its governance framework after what he also said was extensive dialogue with former cricketers and captains.

“The cornerstone of this effort will be the implementation of the proposed new constitution, ensuring it serves as a robust, modern foundation for the sport.

We are committed to absolute compliance with International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations while embedding transparency, anti-corruption and professionalism into the organisation’s DNA. By fostering a culture of meritocracy and fiscal responsibility, we intend to rebuild the public’s trust in SLC. “We will focus on establishing the structures, worldclass facilities, and incentive models necessary to empower our national teams.

Our goal is to enable our players to consistently deliver world-class performances and elevate Sri Lanka back to the top tier of international rankings. “I have been passionate about the sport, both during and after my days as a cricketer at the school and club levels. To have the opportunity to lead a turnaround in our nation’s cricketing fortunes is a profound honour, and one I do not take lightly.

I look forward to the support and constructive feedback of the fans, and pledge to do my utmost to reward your immense passion with quantifiable, lasting results”, Wickremaratne further added in his statement. Analysts contend that the best thing that has happened to Wickremaratne is that he is out of active politics which is likely to endear him to cricket followers.