Sri Lanka Files Complaint with ICC Over T20 World Cup Treatment

Sri Lanka's cricket team has filed a formal complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the treatment and conditions they have faced during the T20 World Cup in the United States.

Sports Minister Harin Fernando alleged that other teams have received preferential treatment, citing a seven-hour flight delay experienced by the Sri Lankan squad at a Florida airport. He also claimed that upon arriving in New York, the team was accommodated over 90 minutes away from the practice stadium, while the Indian team was housed much closer.

"Sri Lanka Cricket has complained to the ICC," Fernando told parliament. "Different countries are being treated differently. We have called for an explanation from the organizers of the tournament."

The Sri Lankan team's struggles have been compounded by poor practice facilities and subpar wickets, according to former captain Angelo Mathews. "The last four to five days have been very challenging for us," Mathews said. "We had to cancel practices because a flight was delayed. We are not going to use this as an excuse, but we want to put all this behind us and do well at the next match."

Sri Lanka's parliament has expressed dismay over the alleged conditions, with opposition leader Sajith Premadasa stating, "We stand against this injustice, we should not allow this."

The sports ministry has sent an officer to the United States to check on the team's welfare. Sri Lanka's next group match is against Bangladesh on Saturday.

Tags: #T20WorldCup, #SriLankaCricket, #ICC, #TournamentConditions, #TeamTreatment