Italian cricket in turmoil as sexual harassment allegations lead to suspension

Italian cricket has been rocked by allegations of sexual harassment, coming just days after the national side marked a historic first participation at the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

The allegations were made by a player from the Italian women’s team and centre on Prabath Ekneligoda, the women’s cricket coordinator. He has been suspended by the Italian board, the Federazione Cricket Italiana (FCRI). According to a statement released by the FCRI, the matter is currently under investigation by the federal prosecutor.

“The Federation confirms that, during 2025, the President of the federation acting within her institutional responsibilities and with the full safeguarding of the athletes and other parties involved in mind, ordered the immediate precautionary suspension of the individual concerned from all federal duties and activities,” the board statement said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

“This measure was adopted pending a thorough and definitive assessment of the circumstances. The decision was taken as a prudent and responsible step, aimed at preventing any undue speculation, preserving the integrity of the sporting environment, and ensuring that any fact-finding takes place in the appropriate forums, with full respect for personal dignity, due process and the presumption of innocence,” it added.

According to BBC Sport, Ekneligoda’s lawyer has denied the allegations and claimed that there were ulterior motives behind them. Although the suspension remains in place, the FCRI’s media manager, Rakbir Hasan, confirmed that Ekneligoda was present at the T20 World Cup.

“He travelled as a companion of the President [Maria Lorena Haz Paz] and does not have any official duties or connection to the World Cup delegation,” said Hasan to ESPNcricinfo.

“Its full willingness to cooperate with the relevant authorities. It reserves the right to take any further action in light of ongoing inquiries. It is further noted that proceedings are currently under way before the Federal Prosecutor’s Office, which is responsible for carrying out the assessments and investigations provided under sporting regulations,” the statement read.

The allegations come amid ongoing turmoil within the board. Haz Paz has been removed from his position following the end of Italy’s campaign, while CEO Luca Bruno Malaspina confirmed that six board members have also resigned. Their departures have led to the dissolution of the Federal Council of the Federazione Cricket Italiana. However, Hasan clarified that these exits are not linked to the allegations currently under investigation.