Sri Lanka Cricket Faces Major Financial Setback as ICC Moves Women's Champions Trophy to India

Colombo's Cricket Dilemma

Colombo: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is projected to lose approximately USD 20 million (around Rs 188 crore) after the ICC revoked its rights to host the inaugural ICC Women’s Champions Trophy next year.

Originally set to take place in Sri Lanka, the tournament has now been shifted to India, scheduled for February 14 to 28, 2027, with matches planned in Mumbai and Vadodara.

Prakash Schaffter, the secretary of SLC’s transformation committee, informed the media, "We will receive a hosting fee, estimated at about 2 million dollars. However, SLC will also need to invest in upgrading facilities and venues."

The ICC's decision to withdraw the event from Sri Lanka was influenced by ongoing governmental interference and the lack of an elected administration within SLC.

Last week, the ICC confirmed the relocation of the six-nation tournament to India, citing that the current governing body's restructuring efforts did not comply with the international governing body's regulations.

The interim committee, appointed by the sports minister in April following the resignation of the elected body led by Shammi Silva, is currently drafting a new constitution aimed at eliminating corruption.

This marks the second ICC event that Sri Lanka has lost since 2024 due to issues related to government interference.