Recently, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) faced a significant setback when the International Cricket Council (ICC) imposed a suspension on SLC due to governmental interference in the board’s internal affairs. Following a disappointing performance in the ICC World Cup 2023, Sri Lanka’s sports minister, Roshan Ranasinghe, took decisive action by dismissing the entire board.
Adding a new twist to the situation, Arjuna Ranatunga, the captain of Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup-winning team, accused BCCI secretary Jay Shah of effectively controlling the Sri Lankan Board.
Ranatunga claimed in a recent interview that the close connections between Jay Shah and Sri Lanka Cricket officials have created a scenario where the BCCI feels they can exert control over SLC.
Ranatunga emphasized the damaging impact of Jay Shah’s influence on Sri Lanka Cricket, attributing Shah’s sway to his father, Amit Shah, who holds the position of India’s Home Minister.
According to Ranatunga, the relationship between SLC officials and Jay Shah has given the impression to BCCI that they have the ability to dominate and manipulate SLC.
“Due to the connection between SLC officials and Jay Shah, BCCI believes they can dominate and manipulate SLC,” said Ranatunga.
In a statement quoted by the Daily Mirror, Arjuna Ranatunga expressed his concern, stating, “Jay Shah’s control over Sri Lanka Cricket is harmful, fueled by his father’s influential position.” The former world champion concluded by highlighting the perceived dominance of BCCI over SLC due to these connections.
