The Italian cricket world, which only days ago stood drenched in the celebration of a historic and spirited performance at the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, has been plunged into a profound institutional crisis now. To this end, the Federazione Cricket Italiana (FCRI) announced that a senior official one who has been identified as women’s cricket coordinator Prabath Ekneligoda was suspended because of serious allegations of sexual assault, as of February 24.
This could not be more different. While the "Azzurri" were making headlines for their 10-wicket thrashing over Nepal and a nail-biting encounter with England, a darker story was brewing behind the scenes within the federation’s headquarters.
The Allegations and Suspension
The allegations, officials said in their official statements and according to reports from Sky Sports, pertain to the "inappropriate touching" of a member of the Italian women’s national team. The incident, it is reported, took place in 2025, and a previous formal complaint was filed with the police last year.
Maria Lorena Haz Paz, FCRI president, ordered the immediate precautionary suspension of the official to protect the integrity of the sporting environment. The federation issued a statement highlighting its commitment to "fairness, transparency and the protection of its registered members."
Details of the investigation:
- Accused: Prabath Ekneligoda, Women’s Cricket Co-ordinator.
- Action Taken: Suspension from all federal responsibilities now pending investigation by a federal prosecutor.
- Defense: Ekneligoda’s counsel lawyers have denied the allegations, asserting they have been driven by “ulterior motives”.
A Shadow Over The World Cup Success
The timing of the revelation has taken a heavy toll on what may have been the best week in the history of Italian cricket. With their first T20 World Cup competition, Italy captured hearts the world over with their brave form of cricket. Here are some highlights of Italy’s 2026 campaign:
- Victory Over Nepal: A dominant 10-wicket victory at the Wankhede Stadium.
- Staring Down Giants: A spirited 178-run total against England that forced the defenders to dig deep.
- Rising Star: Ben Manenti climbed 160 places in the ICC All-rounder rankings to reach World No. 20. But the news of suspension has moved the conversation out of the pitch and into the boardroom.
Both critics and the public are now expressing concern over the federation’s delayed action on the complaint in 2025 because Ekneligoda had apparently gone with the board while tournament, however without any other official duties, when the board met in India and Sri Lanka.
What’s Next for Italian Cricket?
The Federal Prosecutor’s Office must now conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has been contacted for comment. The global body maintains a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to harassment or abuse from all quarters.
The scandal is, for a sport struggling to get its bearings in a football-based country, a vitally important “litmus test” in the leadership test. It is to the extent that the FCRI can manage this investigation so transparently will decide if Italy is a rising “Cinderella story” for world cricket or else a shining example of institutional collapse.
