The five member committee headed by retired Supreme Court Judge Kusala Sarojini Weerawardena appointed to investigate allegations related to incidents involving the Sri Lanka cricket team that represented the country in the last T20 World Cup in Australia, and the alleged influence of the ‘Born Again’ sect on the Sri Lankan cricketers handed over their report to the Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe yesterday. The report has been compiled in two volumes including related schedules and evidence and interview notes and also recommendations.
The newly appointed Sports Ministry Secretary K.Mahesan too has been given a copy of the report. It is said that the report is currently being studied by the minister. Copies will also be given to the National Sports Council and the National Selection Committee.
The committee’s report contains extensive information on several important issues including the influence of social media and the influence of religious sects and misappropriation of funds. It is said that the report also include testimonies from all relevant parties regarding the influence of the Born Again sect on Sri Lankan cricketers. In the recommendations it is learnt the committee has proposed necessary changes to overcome related anomalies. Minister Roshan Ranasinghe stated that the report prepared by the committee is a precedent not only for cricket but for the entire sport sector in the country. The Minister also said that based on this report, he hopes to take action to prevent similar situations in the future in Sri Lankan sports, and that he will work for the development of the entire sport and for the safety and welfare of those involved in sports.
The Sports Minister has appointed this five member committee to investigate cricket related matters especially during the last T20 world cup in Australia. The Minister appointed this committee under powers vested in him from the Sports law.
Former sports Ministry Secretary Kingsley Fernando,Retired DIG Sudath Nagahamulla, Retired Rear Admiral Ananda Pieris, former cricketer Nalin de Alwis and Lawyer Shalani Roshana Fernando are the other committee members who took part at this occation.
