A recent audit of Sri Lanka Cricket’s (SLC) financial statements and compliance with legal provisions for 2025 has identified a series of significant irregularities relating to procurement, governance and financial management.
According to the audit report, the contract to replace the floodlighting system at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium was awarded for Rs. 1.981 billion, exceeding the estimated project cost of Rs. 1.705 billion by Rs. 276 million.
The audit noted that only a single bidder participated in the procurement process and criticised the contract award for being approved by a procurement committee comprising Sri Lanka Cricket Executive Committee members, instead of a Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee as required under government procurement guidelines.
It also pointed out that the decision to invite international bids, rather than conducting a national competitive bidding process, may have resulted in the loss of potential financial benefits.
The audit further identified a conflict of interest in the Rs. 50.83 million development project of the Anuradhapura District Cricket Association Sports Complex, stating that the Chairman of the Technical Evaluation Committee also served as the project’s consultant.
In addition, the report questioned payments amounting to Rs. 12.46 million made to four lawyers for constitutional amendments and legal advice, noting that documentation supporting the selection process had not been provided for audit.
The audit also highlighted that an institutional planning project valued at Rs. 165 million remained incomplete despite being scheduled for completion within six months.
Other issues raised included the payment of Rs. 8.023 million in committee allowances exceeding approved limits and the failure to deduct applicable taxes from more than Rs. 3.2 billion paid to players and consultants during 2023 and 2024.
