‘Kangali me atta geela’ – Fans react as entire Sri Lankan Cricket Board get sacked after poor performance in ODI World Cup 2023

Sri Lanka’s cricketing woes have taken a dramatic turn as the entire Sri Lankan Cricket Board was sacked on Monday, November 6th, following their disappointing performance in the ongoing 2023 World Cup. The Sports Ministry of Sri Lanka took this drastic action in response to mounting public pressure and concerns about the state of cricket in the country.

In a move aimed at restoring stability and accountability to Sri Lankan cricket, the Sports Ministry also announced the formation of an interim cricket committee. The responsibility of overseeing the sport’s administration was handed to former Sri Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga, a respected figure in Sri Lankan cricket. Ranatunga’s appointment is seen as an attempt to bring credibility and leadership back to the sport.

The catalyst for these changes was the national team’s crushing 302-run defeat to Team India, which triggered widespread protests by disgruntled Sri Lankan cricket fans who had long demanded the removal of the existing administration led by Shammi Silva. The disappointing World Cup performance not only angered fans but also revived many old allegations against Sri Lankan cricket, ranging from corruption to match-fixing.

Sri Lanka have won only 2 out of 8 matches in the World Cup

In a statement to media organizations, Sports Minister Ranasinghe highlighted the multifaceted issues plaguing Sri Lankan cricket, including player disciplinary problems, management corruption, financial irregularities, and allegations of match-fixing. He emphasised that the interim measures were introduced to promote good governance principles within the sport.

Sri Lanka’s performance in the 2023 World Cup has been dismal, with the team winning only two out of eight matches and being knocked out of contention for the semi-finals. They faced defeats against South Africa, Pakistan, Australia, Afghanistan, India, and Bangladesh, leaving them in the ninth position in the points table. 

The dismal World Cup campaign, coupled with the controversies surrounding the administration, has plunged Sri Lankan cricket into a crisis that requires urgent attention and reform. The fans were again embarrassed by Sri Lanka’s 3-wicket loss to Bangladesh on Monday.

Here’s how fans reacted:

https://twitter.com/OxygenKohli18/status/1721743322480582838