The controversy emerged after reports claimed that ICC President Jay Shah had issued an ultimatum to Sri Lanka regarding the upcoming Sri Lankan cricket elections during a meeting with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The claims raised questions about the ICC’s involvement in Sri Lanka’s cricket administration.
The Media Division of the President of Sri Lanka immediately denied these reports and described them as false and misleading. The PMD said that no ultimatum was issued during the meeting and clarified that the discussion focused on cricket development, infrastructure projects and future cooperation between the ICC and Sri Lanka.
Daily Mirror report sparks Jay Shah-Sri Lanka cricket election controversy
The controversy began when the Sri Lankan newspaper Daily Mirror published a report about the future of SLC’s administration.. The report claimed that ICC Chairman Jay Shah had warned Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake that the SLC would have to hold its executive elections before July 31.
According to the report, Sri Lanka could face sanctions from the ICC, including the possibility of being blacklisted, if it fails to hold elections within the deadline. The newspaper published this news under the headline: “Conduct SLC elections or blacklist, ICC informs Chairman AKD.”
Sri Lankan government refuses ICC ultimatum, demands withdrawal of report
The Presidential Media Division rejected the claims and said that the meeting between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and ICC President Jay Shah was focused on cricket development and future cooperation.
According to the statement, the discussions covered grassroots cricket, youth development programmes, sporting infrastructure and creating more opportunities for young players across Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan officials also briefed Jay Shah about the government’s ongoing cricket administration reforms.
The administration plans to complete the constitutional changes before holding elections so that the next elected body can operate under a stronger and more stable framework. Following the meeting, Sri Lanka Cricket released a statement outlining the reform process.
“Sri Lanka Cricket shared an indicative timeline for completing the reform process and returning to governance by a duly elected administration in accordance with the applicable legal and constitutional framework.”
The government has asked the Daily Mirror to retract and correct the report in both its print and digital editions. Officials from both sides also said that no threats, election deadlines or possible sanctions were discussed during the meeting.
It was a privilege to meet Anura Kumara Dissanayake – Jay Shah
Jay Shah shared details of the meeting through a post on X. Shah said he met Anura Kumara Dissanayake to discuss the future of cricket in the country, with emphasis on grassroots development, youth programs and opportunities for emerging players.
“It was a privilege to meet His Excellency President @anuradisanayake today and discuss the current state of cricket in Sri Lanka. Our discussion focused on enhancing opportunities for emerging players, supporting grassroots and youth development programs and leveraging cricket as a medium for social impact and economic development.”
“We also exchanged views on Sri Lanka’s role in hosting major international events and contributing to the global growth of our game. Sri Lanka holds a special place in the history of cricket, and I look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to further strengthen the game and create new opportunities for future generations.”
