Sri Lanka Cricket Set for Major Reforms as Supreme Court Clears Most Bill Provisions

November 15, 2026

Colombo: Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court has declared almost all provisions of the proposed Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Reform Bill as constitutional. According to a report by MDW Live Sri Lanka on Sunday, this decision paves the way for major changes in the country’s cricket administration. However, only two sections of the bill require amendment.

According to the report, if these two sections are amended at the committee level, Parliament can pass the bill with a simple majority. Otherwise, a two-thirds majority in Parliament will be required for its passage.

Proposal to form a 14-member board

The proposed bill would create a new statutory body for Sri Lanka Cricket. It would be governed by a 14-member board, consisting of seven independent professionals and seven elected representatives from member clubs and provincial cricket associations.

The bill also provides that at least two of the independent directors must be women. The Board’s Chairman will also be selected from among these independent directors.

Audit and Accountability Mechanism

The new bill provides for an audit by the Auditor General and the appointment of a compliance officer to strengthen oversight of Sri Lanka Cricket’s operations.

In addition, cricket administration will be brought under an independent legal framework separate from the 1973 Sports Act. This aims to increase transparency and accountability in the cricket board’s functioning.

Decision Arrives After Six Petitions

Six petitions were filed in the Supreme Court challenging the bill, including one filed by former Sri Lanka Cricket President Thilanga Sumathipala.

Former Sri Lankan cricketers have supported these reforms. The proposed changes aim to address problems in cricket administration, increase accountability, and reduce administrative and political interference in the country’s cricket.