Lorgat ready to face challenge

Ranjan ANANDAPPA

Former ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat who is in Sri Lanka as a mediator to SLC is prepared to take up the challenge with the support of SLC and use other resources in resolving the present crisis at the once richest sports body in the country (SLC) and lay the necessary foundation for a better future.

Lorgat stressed on the importance of 2017 and 2019 World Test Championship and the 2019 World Cup limited overs Championship.

Lorgt's role will be as an independent advisor and he will carefully analyze and put on the table the recommendation those he believe the best for future of Sri Lanka Cricket.

“We can't, as leaders just sit and only do what's good for today. We need to look for a tomorrow,” he said.

Lorgat , was introduced by Sri Lanka Cricket President Upali Dharmadasa as a person who had played cricket in his native land South Africa at a high level, but was unable to reach the highest level due to the aparthied policies which prevailed during his time. Lorgat speaking at a press briefing flanked by SLC president Upali Dharmadasa, Secretary Nishantha Ranatunga and Treasurer Nushki Mohammed at the SLC head quarters, Maitland Crescent said: “ My task is to work with the members and position themselves for the future. I think it is worthy of a compliment , that the leadership of Sri Lankan Cricket is chosen to look at itself and carefully analyse the correct situation, as we all know that Sri Lankan Cricket faces financial and strategic challenges, we take those tough decision to resolve it ,and put ourselves to compete in the future.” he said.

He further said that the World Test Championship will be held in 2017,and only the top four teams will be eligible to participate in the championships and likewise in the 2019 World Cup only the top 10 teams will be able to take part in the contest.

If Sri Lanka cannot find a place in the rankings of the two tournaments they will not be able to participate in any of these tournaments. These are the important aspects to carefully look at. “These are the visionary aspects to carefully look at, it needs to take tough decisions which will allow the talent in the country to develop, such that it is the best in the world.

If do not have any plan for the future , and if we just wake up in the morning and give what's on the table ,that's not good enough.” said Lorgat.

SLC President Upali Dharmadasa said that everyone knows the capacity and capabilities of Haroon Lorgad has, and utilising the services of Lorgat was a collective idea of SLC. “ I think we are very lucky, for an outsider to come and see what is on here to study the constitution and the set up and take us to the right direction for the future.

Lorgat has been given the task of every aspect of Sri Lanka Cricket and give a report on every aspect including coaching, finance and administration right down the line.”