Explained: Why ICC stripped Sri Lanka of 2027 Women’s CT hosting rights

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has stripped Sri Lanka of the hosting rights for the inaugural Women's Champions Trophy in 2027, citing concerns over government involvement in Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) management. The tournament, which was to feature six teams including Sri Lanka, may now be relocated to another country, with the new venue yet to be determined. Sri Lanka Cricket's Secretary, Prakash Shaffter, confirmed that the event would be held at an alternate venue, but the location remains uncertain.

This decision could pose significant financial challenges for Sri Lanka Cricket, and more importantly, could result in the women's national team losing its automatic qualification for the tournament. The event was set to include the top five-ranked teams alongside the host nation; however, Sri Lanka currently holds the sixth position in the rankings.

Sri Lanka Cricket has been under the management of a government-appointed Transformation Committee since the reforms began. These reforms aimed to bring changes to the board's constitution and governance system. Yet, the ICC has not acknowledged the politically appointed interim administration, citing its refusal to permit SLC representatives to participate in ICC Board meetings since the Transformation Committee took over.

In July, the ICC had acknowledged progress towards a revised Constitution, urging the holding of elections as soon as possible. It reiterated that Sri Lanka Cricket would remain unable to represent itself at ICC Board meetings until the administration returned to an elected administration. The proposed constitutional changes are still undergoing the legal process, which may prolong Sri Lanka's return to an elected administration.

This action mirrors the ICC's decision in 2023 when Sri Lanka lost the hosting rights for the 2024 U-19 World Cup following the dissolution of its elected cricket administration and its replacement with an interim committee. The ICC is committed to ensuring an elected administration governs Sri Lanka Cricket before granting it back the hosting rights for the Women's Champions Trophy.