COLOMBO : The World Cricketers’ Association (WCA) welcomed the formation of a players’ body in Sri Lanka, describing it as a landmark development for the professionalism and growth of the sport in the country.
The Sri Lankan Professional Cricketers’ Association was officially launched on Saturday, with white-ball captain Kusal Mendis appointed its inaugural president.
The association’s formation comes as Sri Lanka Cricket undergoes a reform process led by a government-appointed committee.
“A strong game and strong player representation go hand in hand,” WCA Chief Executive Tom Moffat said in a statement on Monday.
“Cricket thrives when players have a genuine voice in its future, and by coming together with a unified voice, the Sri Lankan players have demonstrated a deep commitment to the long-term health, integrity and professional progression of the game.”
Women’s captain Chamari Athapaththu has also backed the association, which is expected to give players a stronger voice, particularly in negotiations with the cricket board over permission to participate in franchise competitions.
Players in 17 of the top 19 cricket-playing countries are now affiliated with the WCA, with India and Pakistan the exceptions.
