ICC U19 World Cup 2024 moves out of Sri Lanka in the aftermath of political interference

ICC U19 World Cup 2024 moves out of Sri Lanka: In what can be called disastrous news for Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2024, which was scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka, has now been moved out of the country. The development came after the ICC's board meeting in Ahmedabad on Tuesday (21st November).

The decision to remove Sri Lanka as the host of the ICC U19 World Cup 2024 could be linked to the ICC's ruling to suspend the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) due to excessive government interference. It was learnt that SLC failed to maintain and regulate the cricket affairs autonomously and hence, ICC handed a suspension.

In the ICC's recent board meeting held in Ahmedabad on November 21, it was concluded that the upcoming ICC U19 World Cup 2024 in January will be moved out of Sri Lanka. The hosting rights were subsequently awarded to South Africa, which hosted the Women's U19 T20 World Cup.

"It was a unanimous decision by the board that the suspension cannot be lifted. Cricket in the country will continue as normal," a source said as reported by Cricbuzz.

However, it was maintained that Sri Lanka can still participate in the bilateral and ICC-related fixtures, despite the sanctions imposed by the apex cricket board. The SLC will receive controlled funding through the ICC until the suspension lifts.

"I have requested the ICC board to allow the game to continue and the members have upheld our request, " Sammi Silva said.

"After hearing representation from SLC, the ICC Board decided that Sri Lanka can continue to compete internationally both in bilateral cricket and ICC events after?being suspended recently for breaching its obligations as a Member?in particular the requirement to manage its affairs autonomously and without government interference. However, funding to SLC will be controlled by the ICC," said ICC in a statement release.

The ICC Men's U19 World Cup 2024 is set to be held between January 14 and February 15 in South Africa. Interestingly, the schedule for the newly launched SA20 league also runs between January 10 and February 10, so there could be a possible clash.

However, confirming the details, Cricket South Africa (CSA) official said that the country is capable of hosting both events simultaneously as the SA20 league is regulated by a separate organisation which is independent of the CSA.

ALSO READ: IND vs AUS 2023: T20I Schedule, Squad | India vs Australia T20I series Fixtures, Match List, Venues and Live Streaming Details

For More, Check The Official Site:?ICC