With the uncertainty in Sri Lanka cricket, the ICC has decided to move the Under-19 World Cup to South Africa.
U-19 World Cup shifted to South Africa
Sri Lanka was knocked out of the World Cup 2023 in group stages with only two victories out of nine matches. On this occasion, the Sri Lankan government interfered in the matters of the cricket board.
The U19-World Cup 2024 was destined to take place in Sri Lanka. But due the suspension of the SLC board from ICC membership made significant changes in organizing ICC tournaments in the country.
However, the Sri Lankan board was suspended by the ICC due to the interference of the government in the board’s administration and former Player Arjuna Ranatunga took over the affairs of SLC. The ICC is currently meeting in Ahmedabad.
After the discussion on the matter, it was revealed that the board had decided to uphold the November 10 decision to suspend the SLC. The board said that the cricket team will continue to play uninterrupted, but the suspension will not be overturned.
“It was a unanimous decision by the board that the suspension cannot be lifted. Cricket in the country will continue as normal,” said a source.
Shammi Silva attended the board meeting, held at ITC Narmada in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, November 21.
The Under 19 World Cup 2024 was scheduled to take place between January 14 and February 15. The second edition of SA20 coincides with the dates of the Under-19 World Cup as they run from January 10 to February 10.
However, an official from South Africa has said that both tournaments can be organized simultaneously as the T20 league is organized by a team that is independent of CSA.
ICC also considered the option of holding the event in Oman and the UAE, but South Africa is preferred due to better infrastructure. Further, both countries submitted an expensive proposal. CSA has agreed to spare three venues for the mult-nation championship.
SLC chief Silva suggested that the confusion could have been avoided but said cricket in the country will remain uninterrupted.
“I have requested the ICC board to allow the game to continue and the members have upheld our request, ” Shammi Silva told on media. He also confirmed that Sri Lanka will take part in the U-19 World Cup in South Africa.
