MP Thilanga Sumathipala has filed a writ application with the Court of Appeal against the rejection of his nomination to contest for the presidency of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).

Citing that he had previously served as president of the national cricket board for 5 years and had also represented Sri Lanka in the International Cricket Council (ICC) board, Sumathipala in the appeal states that there is no justifiable reason to reject his nomination.

The parliamentarian therefore requests court to issue a writ order revoking the rejection of his nomination.  

Three major cricket clubs had raised objections to the candidacy of Sumathipala which was consequently investigated by a committee appointed by the sports minister.

Sumathipala’s nomination was rejected by the ministry in line with the findings of that committee and upon consultation with the attorney general.

The nominations of other aspirants including incumbent Chairman Upali Dharmadasa and President of the Badureliya Cricket Association Sumith Perera were also rejected by the cricket board.

The elections of officials to Sri Lanka Cricket scheduled for March 30, was postponed to April 16 due to the controversy over the nomination.

Jayantha Dharmadasa was nominated for the post of President by the SLC Executive Committee last week.