I want to instill discipline and nurture players capable of reaching the pinnacle, says newly-appointed SLC IC chairman Arjuna Ranatunga

Sri Lanka's shambolic 302-run defeat against India in the ODI World Cup 2023 led to severe outrage among the fans. In fact, a number of fans stood recently gathered outside the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) headquarters.

The Sri Lankan government sacked the SLC board members as Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe appointed an interim committee comprising seven members in the hope of bringing back the golden days of Sri Lankan cricket. World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga has been appointed as the chairman of the committee. The 59-year-old spoke about the importance of discipline in the players and the need for creating a strong team rather than individuals.

“I want to instill discipline and nurture players capable of reaching the pinnacle. It’s not about individuals; it’s about creating a strong team, much like in my playing days,” Ranatunga was quoted as saying by Daily News.

Ranatunga also empathized with the Sri Lankan fans' frustration after the team's dismal performance in the World Cup and ensured that he would try his best to begin a new era in cricket for the 'Lankan Lions'.

“I’ve witnessed the disappointment among Sri Lankan cricket fans and their request for my service. It’s my responsibility to direct cricket into a new era," said Ranatunga.

The newly-established SLC Interim Committee to thoroughly investigate corruption and fraudulent practices of recent years

According to Ranasinghe, the seven-member interim committee will investigate the corruption and fraudulent practices that have persisted in recent years. The committee has two Retired Supreme Court Judges and one Retired High Court Judge.

The 2020 Twenty20 World Cup special audit report highlighted alleged instances of corruption, mismanagement, and negligence by the board. The Minister stressed the need for a transparent and thorough investigation.

“Furthermore, the Chairman of the committee will appoint sub-committees to address various areas such as administration, cricket development, and law,” the Minister said.

Sri Lanka have had a forgettable campaign in the ODI World Cup 2023. After their crushing defeat against India, Sri Lanka lost to Bangladesh on Monday, November 6, and are in danger of not qualifying for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Having already been eliminated from the marquee event, the Kusal Mendis-led side will end their campaign with a game against New Zealand on November 9 in Bengaluru.