In a move which has triggered a fresh controversy, the Sri Lanka School Cricket Association President invited former Cricket Board President Thilanga Sumathipala for the Opening of turf wickets of his Darmapala College, instead of inviting Education Minister. Now, Cricket Fraternity in Sri Lanka is accusing SLSCA President for unethically highlighting Sumathipala, even as he is nothing to do with the school cricket.
On September 1st, SLSCA President O. Panditharatna invited Sumathipala for the Opening of the college ground and turf wickets. Sumathipala also participated in a friendly match, along with SLC employee Senaka Angulugaha.
Cricket fraternity, however, has declared this as a publicity stunt and and unethical move by Panditharatna. Accusations are that Panditharatna shares a good rapport with Sumathipala and went for an overseas joyride at board expenses for a youth world Cup, when Sumathipala was SLC President.
“As it was related to school cricket and Panditharatna himself is the President of school cricket association in Sri Lanka, he should have invited Education Minister Akila Viraj or his secretary. But, by ignoring them, he invited Sumathipala, who has nothing to do with the SLC now” a former SLC administrator told Cricket Age.
“This project was funded by SLC with the intention to get the school vote. Sumathipala is no more with the SLC but still goes behind those events just to show people” he further added.
Angulugaha was earlier in the air force and had an inquiry against him on procurement practices. Cricket Age learns that he does the same practice at SLC Now and helped board’s former controversial treasurer Shammi Silva in all procurement practices and tender deals.
