The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially appointed Sumathi Dharmawardena, P.C., as the new Independent Chair of the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). This significant decision reflects the ICC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of cricket worldwide.
Dharmawardena, who brings a wealth of experience in legal and governance matters, will oversee the ACU’s efforts to combat corruption and uphold ethical standards in the sport. The ICC looks forward to his leadership as the organisation continues to strengthen its measures against corruption in cricket.
Mr. Dharmawardena has been appointed to succeed Sir Ronnie Flanagan, who concluded his distinguished 14-year tenure in this role. With a robust background in legal practice, Mr. Dharmawardena offers a wealth of experience to his new position.
He previously served as an Additional Solicitor General at the Attorney General’s Department of Sri Lanka, where he played a pivotal role in representing the Government of Sri Lanka across a broad spectrum of legal issues.
His responsibilities encompassed advising on multifaceted legal matters, including those related to the Ministry of Sport, and ensuring that the government’s interests were effectively safeguarded in various legal proceedings. Mr. Dharmawardena’s extensive experience and expertise will be invaluable as he takes on his new responsibilities.
The newly appointed Chair of the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has actively partnered with Interpol and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to address issues of corruption within the realm of sports.
His work has involved conducting thorough investigations and overseeing several legal prosecutions under the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports Act, a crucial piece of legislation that he was instrumental in developing and implementing.
In addition to his investigative efforts, he has taken on the responsibility of representing the Government of Sri Lanka in high-stakes discussions and negotiations with prominent global sporting organisations.
Through these engagements, he aims to foster cooperation and enhance integrity in sports on both a national and international level. His commitment to these initiatives underscores the importance of transparency and ethical conduct in athletics.
Anti-corruption unit is a major role
The Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) plays a crucial role in overseeing the organisation’s integrity initiatives. This position involves providing leadership and strategic direction to ensure that cricket remains a sport free from corruption and misconduct.
The day-to-day operations of the ACU are managed by the General Manager – Integrity, who is responsible for implementing policies and overseeing investigations related to potential breaches of conduct. Mr. Dharmawardena is set to assume the position of Independent Chair on 1 November 2024, bringing with him a wealth of experience to strengthen the unit’s efforts in maintaining the integrity of the sport.
