Italy Cricket Suspends Women’s Coordinator After Sexual Harassment Allegation

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Federazione Cricket Italiana (FCRI) has suspended women's cricket coordinator Prabath Ekneligoda after a player from Italy's women's team alleged sexual harassment, days after the country made its historic T20 World Cup debut.

In a statement, the Italian board confirmed that the allegations are under investigation by the federal prosecutor in accordance with sporting regulations.

"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 FCRI said.

"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."

The board added that proceedings are currently underway before the Federal Prosecutor's Office, which is tasked with conducting the necessary assessments and investigations.
According to reports, Ekneligoda's lawyer has denied the allegations, suggesting there were "ulterior motives" behind the complaint.

FCRI media manager Rakbir Hasan confirmed that Ekneligoda travelled with federation president Maria Lorena Haz Paz during the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka but did not hold any official duties during the tournament.

The allegations have emerged at a landmark moment for Italian cricket, which recently featured on the global stage for the first time. While the investigation is ongoing, the federation has emphasised safeguarding athletes and upholding due process as the matter proceeds through the appropriate channels.