Sri Lanka Cricket’s New Constitution May Reduce Voting Members, Expand Women’s Representation

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is set to introduce significant governance reforms through a proposed new constitution that could reduce the number of voting members while increasing women’s representation in key decision-making bodies.

The proposals are being drafted by SLC’s newly formed Transformation Committee, whose primary objective is to modernise the board’s governance structure and align it with international standards followed by other ICC Full Member nations.

Women’s Representation Set for Bigger Role

One of the key reforms under consideration is the inclusion of mandatory seats for women on SLC’s top committees. The committee also confirmed that the number of electors in SLC elections, currently standing at 60, is expected to be reduced as part of the governance overhaul.

While the committee declined to reveal the complete draft or specific constitutional provisions, it acknowledged that these reforms form a major part of its agenda.

Draft Constitution Nearing Completion

Transformation Committee chairman Eran Wickramaratne said the draft constitution could be completed within the next two weeks before moving to Sri Lanka’s Parliament for approval. Since Sri Lanka Cricket operates under the country’s Sports Law of 1973, parliamentary approval remains a necessary step despite the board’s financial independence.

“We’re now at the end of June, and then we have to get into the process of parliament. I’m hoping, very quickly, within a couple of weeks, we may be able to get there. By July this would be tabled,” Wickramaratne said.

ICC Compliance Remains a Priority

The Transformation Committee stressed that although it was appointed by the Sri Lankan government, the reform process remains fully compliant with International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations.

Committee members described recent discussions with ICC chairman Jay Shah as positive, saying the ICC welcomed the reform process. The governing body has not indicated any concerns about government interference, unlike previous occasions when Sri Lanka Cricket faced sanctions.

International Expertise Supporting Reforms

To ensure the new constitution meets global governance standards, SLC has appointed former ICC Head of Legal David Becker as an advisor. His role includes helping benchmark Sri Lanka’s governance framework against successful cricket boards around the world.

“We wanted to make sure we internationally benchmark these constitutional changes. We have hired the former legal counsel of the ICC as an advisor, and that process has already begun,” Wickramaratne added.

Focus on Modern Governance

The proposed constitutional reforms are expected to reshape Sri Lanka Cricket’s administrative structure by improving transparency, strengthening governance, promoting gender diversity, and aligning the board with internationally recognised best practices. Once finalised and approved by Parliament, the new constitution could mark one of the most significant administrative reforms in Sri Lankan cricket in recent years.