News

Sri Lanka front runner to host Women’s World Cup after India turn down offer from ICC to host event

Published

2 years ago

August 15, 2024

Editor

Sri Lanka has emerged as the front runner to host the forthcoming Women’s T20I World Cup 2024 following India’s refusal to accommodate the ICC’s request for the event.

According to reports from Indian media, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially rejected the ICC’s request to stage the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, which is set to take place from October 3 to 20. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that the ICC had approached the Indian board with this proposal. As a result, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates have emerged as the primary alternatives.

The ICC is contemplating the relocation of the Women’s T20 World Cup due to escalating violence and security issues in Bangladesh. The nation has been grappling with significant unrest following anti-government demonstrations that have led to numerous casualties and the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration.

An ICC representative indicated earlier this week that the situation in Bangladesh is being closely monitored, with all possible options under consideration. Bangladesh is encountering substantial obstacles in its efforts to host the forthcoming Women’s T20 World Cup.

Stringent travel advisories issued by prominent cricketing nations, including England, Australia, and India, due to security concerns, present a significant challenge for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Adding to the complexity is the ongoing political instability within the country.

The recent governmental transition has left the BCB in disarray, with key figures, such as the former president and sports minister, no longer in their positions. The absence of several board directors due to political affiliations has further intensified the challenges faced by the BCB.

Jay Shah remarked that the ICC had approached him regarding the possibility of hosting the World Cup, to which he firmly responded in the negative.

“The ICC inquired whether we would be willing to host the World Cup. I have unequivocally stated no,” Jay Shah was quoted as saying. “We are currently in the monsoon season, and additionally, we are set to host the Women’s ODI World Cup next year. I do not wish to convey any indication that I am interested in hosting consecutive World Cups.”

A final decision regarding the potential relocation of the Women’s T20 World Cup from Bangladesh is expected by 20 August. The tournament is scheduled to take place from 3 to 20 October.

If Sri Lanka cricket board can acquire the hosting rights it would significantly benefit the Chamari-led Asian Champions, providing them with the advantage of playing in familiar conditions and the support of local fans.

Sri Lanka recently hosted the Women’s Asia Cup 2024, where they also secured the inaugural title.

The victory helps cap off a tremendous 14-month period for Sri Lanka, who have claimed T20I series triumphs over Bangladesh, England and South Africa in recent times as well winning the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier tournament to earn a place at this year’s tournament in October.

Cricket

LPL 2026 Player Draft Set for June 1 in Colombo

Published

2 days ago

May 29, 2026

Editor

The much-anticipated Player Draft for the sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 is scheduled to take place on June 1 in Colombo, marking a significant milestone ahead of Sri Lanka’s premier domestic T20 tournament.

A total of 421 cricketers including 179 Sri Lankan players and 242 overseas players will be available for selection during the draft process. The local player pool will consist of national representatives, domestic performers, and emerging talents, offering franchises a wide range of options as they finalize their squads for the upcoming season.

The draft will be conducted across several player categories, namely Platinum, Gold, Classic, Emerging, and Associate Stars.

Among the Sri Lankan contingent, 17 players have been listed in the Platinum category, while 34 players fall under Gold, 80 under Classic, and 48 under Emerging.

The overseas player lineup includes 31 Platinum players, 64 Gold players, 99 Classic players, and 48 players in the Associate Stars category.

The official draft proceedings will commence at 1.30 p.m. and are expected to draw the participation of all franchise owners and team management representatives.

Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, will attend the event as the Chief Guest.

Several key cricket administrators and officials are also expected to be present, including Mr. Eran Wickramaratne, Chairman of the Cricket Transformation Committee (CTC), members of the Transformation Committee, Mr. Ashley De Silva, Chief Executive Officer of Sri Lanka Cricket, and Mr. Samantha Dodanwela, Tournament Director of the Lanka Premier League.

The LPL has continued to grow in stature since its inception, providing a competitive platform for local talent while attracting international stars to Sri Lanka’s premier T20 competition.

Athletics

Tarushi Abisheka Wins Gold for Sri Lanka at Asian Under-20 Championships

Published

2 days ago

May 29, 2026

Editor

Sri Lanka’s rising middle-distance runner Tarushi Abisheka delivered an outstanding performance to claim the gold medal in the girls’ 1500 metres event at the Asian Under-20 Athletics Championships in Hong Kong on Thursday.

Abisheka crossed the finish line in 4 minutes and 31.41 seconds, securing first place ahead of Iran’s Maryam Baluoutaki, who finished second, while South Korea’s Song Dawson claimed the bronze medal.

The young Sri Lankan athlete is also competing in the 800m event at the continental championship, continuing to showcase her talent on the international stage.

The Asian Under-20 Athletics Championships has attracted competitors from 40 countries, with athletes taking part in 46 events during the tournament.

Sri Lanka has fielded a 22-member team for the competition, consisting of 15 male athletes and seven female athletes.

News

India snap Sri Lanka winning streak

Published

2 days ago

May 28, 2026

Editor

Sri Lanka’s impressive winning streak at the FIBA U-18 Asia Cup SABA Qualifiers came to an end yesterday as they suffered a hard-fought 72-77 defeat against a strong Indian side at the Sugathadasa Stadium.

Coming into the match with two consecutive victories, the hosts displayed tremendous spirit and determination throughout the contest. Sri Lanka made an energetic start and matched the taller and more experienced Indian outfit in every department during the opening stages of the game.

The home team enjoyed an excellent first half and went into the breather with a narrow 43-40 lead after producing some attractive attacking basketball. Sri Lanka’s quick passing, aggressive drives to the basket and accurate shooting kept the Indian defence under constant pressure. The local cagers also showed great discipline in defence, forcing several turnovers and capitalising on fast-break opportunities.

However, India bounced back strongly after halftime with improved defensive work and better control in the final two quarters. Their experience and physical advantage gradually helped them regain momentum as they edged ahead during the decisive stages of the encounter.

Despite trailing in the closing minutes, Sri Lanka continued to fight bravely and reduced the margin with some spirited play. The hosts received strong support from the spectators who gathered at the stadium to cheer the young team.

India eventually held their nerve to secure a five-point victory and remain one of the strongest contenders in the tournament. Although Sri Lanka ended on the losing side, the performance of the young players earned praise for their fighting spirit and determination against a formidable opponent.