Kusal Mendis appointed president of Sri Lankan Professional Cricketers' Association

Kusal Mendis has been named the inaugural president of the freshly launched Sri Lankan Professional Cricketers' Association (SLPCA), an independent administrative body set to represent the voice of professional cricketers in the Island nation. It is directly affiliated with the World Cricketers' Association (WCA) and backed by active players like Wanindu Hasaranga and Chamari Athapaththu.

The launch comes at a time when a government-backed nine-member Transformation Committee is managing Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), and a new constitution is on the horizon.

"The formation of the SLPCA comes at a landmark time for Sri Lankan cricket, following a sustained period of positive progress and reform across the sport in the country, including the work of the game's transformation committee to strengthen governance and modernise the domestic structure," said a media release.

There are several players association in cricket-playing countries worldwide which cater to the interests of the players and even negotiate with the respective boards in matters involving central contracts.

"Alongside the governance reforms and transformation work already underway, having a genuine, organised player voice is another important step toward a modern, collaborative game that is aligned with international best practice," the release added.

Mendis and Athapaththu feel the players will benefit massively from the SPCA, and it will go a long way in "effective player representation", especially in matters of issuing No Objection Certificates for participation in overseas T20 franchise tournaments.

"We're proud to have established SPCA to represent Sri Lanka's players at this important time, and we look forward to working constructively and collaboratively with Sri Lanka Cricket, the Transformation Committee, and other stakeholders as cricket continues to grow," the newly-appointed SLPCA president, Mendis, said.

"Through the work of the Transformation Committee, we have already seen great progress in Sri Lankan cricket. The setting up of the Players' Association is another important step forward and sees Sri Lankan cricketers join many of our international colleagues in cricket and other sports who already benefit from effective player representation," said Athapaththu.