Italian cricket has been thrown into turmoil only days after the nation celebrated its historic debut at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, following revelations that a senior official within the country’s governing body has been investigated over a serious sexual assault allegation. The situation has sparked resignations, internal unrest, and growing concern about governance and safeguarding within the sport in Italy, overshadowing what should have been a milestone moment for the country’s cricket development.
At the centre of the controversy is Prabath Ekneligoda, the 57-year-old women’s cricket coordinator for the Federazione Cricket Italiana (FCRI). He became the subject of a criminal investigation after a member of the Italy women’s national team accused him of inappropriate conduct. According to reports, the allegation relates to an incident in which the player claimed she was inappropriately touched during what was described as a massage for a knee injury during a training session. The player, whose identity remains protected for legal and privacy reasons, stated that fear of losing her place in the team initially prevented her from coming forward.
The complaint was formally submitted to police in Rome in March of the previous year. Authorities then carried out a detailed investigation into the matter, which was concluded by a Rome prosecutor in November 2025. Following the conclusion of the investigation phase, Ekneligoda was interviewed by police the following month as part of ongoing legal procedures. Officials are now expected to decide whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a trial.
Ekneligoda, who is originally from Sri Lanka, has strongly denied the allegation. His legal representative has stated that the accusations are unfounded and suggested there may be ulterior motives behind them. The lawyer also indicated that a witness supports Ekneligoda’s version of events, emphasizing that his client rejects any wrongdoing and intends to defend himself against the claims through the legal process.
Despite the seriousness of the allegation, the situation has raised additional concerns within the Italian cricket community, particularly around governance and safeguarding practices. Sources familiar with the matter have revealed that multiple members of the FCRI board have reportedly resigned, citing both this case and broader governance issues as reasons for stepping down. These resignations have intensified scrutiny on the leadership structure within the federation and its ability to manage sensitive matters effectively.
The FCRI issued a formal statement acknowledging that proceedings are ongoing before the federal prosecutor’s office and confirmed its intention to cooperate fully with the relevant judicial authorities. The federation also stressed that its actions are guided by principles of fairness, transparency, and the protection of registered members. Officials emphasized that any final determinations would be left to the competent legal authorities rather than being handled internally.
However, controversy has deepened due to Ekneligoda’s continued visibility in Italian cricket circles even after his suspension from his official role in November. Although he was suspended from duties, he reportedly remained active within the cricket environment and was seen attending several events connected to Italy’s participation in the T20 World Cup. His presence at these events has led to criticism from insiders who question whether appropriate safeguarding measures were strictly enforced.
Reports indicate that Ekneligoda traveled alongside FCRI president Maria Lorena Haz Paz to India during the men’s T20 World Cup. He was allegedly seen attending Italy’s matches while wearing official accreditation and sitting with members of the Italian cricket delegation. Additionally, he was present at official gatherings and receptions arranged for players, coaches, and officials, including events hosted at the Italian consulate in Kolkata. These developments have fueled debate about the federation’s internal handling of the matter and whether reputational risks were adequately considered.
It has also emerged that the federation, its president, and safeguarding officers were already aware of the seriousness of the allegations before the World Cup took place. This has led to further criticism, particularly regarding the optics of allowing an individual under investigation to remain visible in official environments connected to national representation on the global stage.
Italian media outlets, including major national newspapers, recently brought the allegation into the public spotlight for the first time, significantly increasing pressure on the federation. As of the latest reports, Ekneligoda was still listed on the FCRI website as the women’s cricket coordinator, a detail that has raised further questions about administrative oversight and communication within the governing body.
The controversy has placed President Maria Lorena Haz Paz under increasing scrutiny, especially in light of the reported board resignations and governance concerns. Haz Paz, who assumed the presidency in February 2025 with a mandate lasting until 2028, now faces the challenge of navigating a crisis that threatens to undermine confidence in the federation’s leadership and ethical standards.
Senior figures within Italian cricket are said to be worried that the scandal could cause long-term reputational damage to the sport in the country. There are also fears that potential legal complications and negative publicity may hinder efforts to grow cricket’s popularity and attract investment, sponsorship, and institutional support at a time when the sport was beginning to gain international attention.
This crisis comes at a particularly sensitive moment because Italy’s debut at the T20 World Cup had generated excitement and optimism within the global cricket community. The team’s participation marked a historic achievement, reflecting years of grassroots development and the growing diversity of cricket across Europe. Their performances, including a notable victory over Nepal in Mumbai and a competitive showing against England in Kolkata, captured the imagination of fans and analysts alike.
Although Italy did not progress to the Super 8 stage of the tournament, their spirited displays were widely praised and seen as a stepping stone for future growth. Many observers believed the exposure from the World Cup could serve as a catalyst for expanding cricket’s reach within Italy, attracting new players, sponsors, and institutional backing.
Now, however, the focus has shifted away from sporting progress to governance accountability and safeguarding responsibilities. The situation highlights the importance of robust institutional structures, particularly in emerging cricket nations where administrative frameworks are still evolving. Experts warn that mishandling sensitive allegations can have lasting consequences not only for individuals involved but also for the credibility of the sport as a whole.
The case also raises broader questions about athlete welfare, reporting mechanisms, and the power dynamics that can exist within national sports structures. The player’s claim that fear of losing her place in the team delayed her report underscores the challenges athletes may face when raising complaints against officials in positions of authority. Such concerns have renewed calls for stronger safeguarding policies and independent reporting channels within sporting federations.
As legal proceedings continue, the final outcome of the investigation will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Italian cricket governance. Regardless of the legal verdict, the federation is likely to face ongoing pressure to review its internal policies, improve transparency, and rebuild trust among players, officials, and the wider cricket community.
Ultimately, what should have been a celebratory chapter in Italian cricket history has been overshadowed by a governance crisis that now demands careful handling. The coming months will be critical as authorities determine whether the case proceeds to trial, while the FCRI must address internal instability, reputational concerns, and safeguarding reforms to ensure the long-term integrity and growth of the sport in Italy.
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