Colombo, Swpt 10:
Sri Lanka Cricket is facing an estimated revenue loss of USD 20 million (around Rs 188 crore) after the ICC moved next year’s inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy out of the country. The six-nation tournament, originally scheduled in Sri Lanka, will now be held in India from February 14 to 28, 2027, with matches in Mumbai and Vadodara.
SLC transformation committee secretary Prakash Schaffter said the board would receive a hosting fee of around USD 2 million but would also have incurred expenses on upgrading venues and facilities had the tournament remained in Sri Lanka.
The ICC cited government interference and the absence of an elected administration at Sri Lanka Cricket while taking the decision. The current interim committee was appointed by the country’s sports minister in April following the resignation of the elected body headed by Shammi Silva.
The interim committee is working on a new constitution for the governing body, with the stated aim of addressing corruption and administrative concerns. The loss of the 2027 tournament is the second ICC event Sri Lanka has lost since 2024 over concerns about government interference.