Sri Lanka Cricket decided to dedicate the ‘Major Club Women’s 50-Over Tournament’ in memory of the late Gwen Herat, the founding president of the Sri Lanka Women’s Cricket Association.

This decision has been made in recognition of the outstanding service rendered by Mrs. Herat towards the founding of Women’s Cricket Association in the country.

It was under her leadership that the Sri Lanka Women’s Cricket Association was established in 1997, where she served as its founding president.

Accordingly, in memory of her from 2026 onwards, the Major Club Women’s 50-Over
Tournament will be named the Gwen Herat Memorial Trophy.

“The significant role played by the late Mrs. Gwen Herat in laying the foundation for women’s cricket is well remembered by the cricketing fraternity. By naming a tournament in her honor, Sri Lanka Cricket aims to preserve her legacy for future generations,” said Mr. Bandula
Dissanayake.

Marking this significant initiative, the family of Mrs. Gwen Herat presented a trophy to Sri Lanka Cricket, which will be awarded to the champions of future editions of the tournament.
The handover was carried out by Mrs. Herat’s family members, including her daughters, Shamarra Herat and Parveen Herat, and her son, Avancka Herat.

The Gwen Herat Memorial Trophy was officially handed over to Mr. Bandula Dissanayake, Honorary Secretary of Sri Lanka Cricket, in the presence of Mr. Ashley de Silva, CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket, and distinguished guests Mr. Chandra Schaffter and Mr. Hemaka Amarasuriya.

Mr. Chinthaka Edirimanne, Head of National Cricket Operations, and Mr. Upul Nawaratne
Bandara, Head of Marketing at SLC, also were present at the ceremony, which took place at SLC last week.

Sri Lanka Cricket could be on the verge of a major leadership shake-up, with reports suggesting that President Shammi Silva is expected to resign from his post on Wednesday, potentially ending a seven-year tenure at the helm of the governing body.

According to a report published by Daily Mirror, Silva’s anticipated resignation follows a request from the government, signaling possible political involvement in the administration of the sport.

The report further indicates that former Member of Parliament and State Minister Eran Wickramaratne is likely to be appointed as the Interim President of Sri Lanka Cricket, should Silva step down as expected.

Silva, who was first elected to the position in February 2019, has maintained his leadership through multiple election victories, overseeing Sri Lanka Cricket during a period marked by both challenges and transitions.

While no official confirmation has yet been issued, the reported developments have already sparked widespread discussion within cricketing and political circles, raising questions about the future direction of the country’s cricket administration.

The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) is set to take place from July 10 to August 5, 2026, promising another exciting season of top-quality Twenty20 cricket. As Sri Lanka’s premier domestic T20 competition with a strong international presence, the tournament continues to attract both local and overseas talent.

This year’s matches will be held across four venues: Sinhalese Sports Club Ground (SSC), R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium (RPICS), Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (PICS), and Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS). These iconic grounds are expected to provide a vibrant atmosphere and excellent playing conditions throughout the competition.

The online registration portal for foreign players will officially open on May 4, 2026, allowing international cricketers to sign up and participate in the league. This step ensures the continuation of LPL’s global appeal, as overseas players add competitiveness and diversity to the tournament.

The event will be organized by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the official owner of the league, in partnership with The IPG Group, which holds the event rights. Their collaboration has been instrumental in maintaining the league’s high standards since its inception.

Launched in 2020, the LPL has rapidly grown in popularity among cricket fans. Mr. Samantha Dodanwela, an Executive Committee Member of SLC, will continue in his role as Tournament Director, ensuring smooth organization and execution.

With thrilling matches and star players expected, LPL 2026 is set to deliver another unforgettable cricketing spectacle.