ICC relocates Men's Under-19 World Cup from Sri Lanka to South Africa

In a recent development, the ICC has decided to relocate the Under-19 World Cup from Sri Lanka to South Africa due to administrative disruption within Sri Lanka Cricket. The decision was made during the ICC board meeting in Ahmedabad, where it was also decided to maintain the suspension of Sri Lanka Cricket, which was initially imposed on November 10.

Former ICC president Sammi Silva, who was ousted from the position, attended the board meeting held at ITC Narmada in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, November 21. The Under-19 World Cup was initially scheduled for January 14 to February 15, but these dates would have clashed with the second edition of SA20, taking place from January 10 to February 10. Cricket South Africa (CSA) assured that both events could be organized simultaneously, as the T20 league is overseen independently of CSA.

South Africa emerged as the preferred choice for the Under-19 World Cup due to superior infrastructure, with CSA committing to three venues for the multi-nation championship. Despite the suspension of SLC, the ICC board decided that the Sri Lanka team would continue to participate in international cricket, with funding controlled by the suspended SLC.

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

Silva expressed a desire for uninterrupted cricket in the country and said that he has requested the ICC board to allow the game to continue, and the board members have upheld their requests well.

"I have requested the ICC board to allow the game to continue and the members have upheld our request, " Silva told Cricbuzz

The move to South Africa ensures a smooth transition for the U-19 World Cup, providing cricket enthusiasts with the much-anticipated tournament. As cricket in Sri Lanka forges ahead, the ICC remains committed to maintaining the spirit of the game despite administrative uncertainties.