Italian cricket official investigated for sexual assault amid crisis
Italian cricket has been plunged into turmoil following a sexual assault allegation against a senior official just days after the men’s team made their T20 World Cup debut.
Prabath Ekneligoda, the women’s cricket co-ordinator for the Federazione Cricket Italiana (FCRI), was the subject of a criminal investigation regarding the incident.
The 57-year-old is alleged to have inappropriately touched a member of the Azzurri women’s national team.
BBC Sport understands that multiple board members have resigned over the handling of the case and wider governance issues.
Allegations of abuse of power
A player, whose identity is legally protected, filed a complaint with police in Rome in March last year.
She alleged the assault occurred during a massage on a knee injury at a training session.
The accuser reportedly feared reporting the incident earlier due to concerns it would cost her a place in the squad.
A Rome prosecutor concluded an investigation in November 2025, with a decision now pending on whether to proceed to trial.
Ekneligoda’s lawyer stated his client denies the allegations, claiming there are “ulterior motives” and citing a witness who supports his version of events.
Presence at World Cup despite suspension
The FCRI confirmed to BBC Sport that it “noted proceedings are currently under way” and pledged to cooperate with authorities.
“The Italian Cricket Federation reiterates that its conduct is guided by principles of fairness, transparency and the protection of its registered members, as well as by the ethical and civic standards that underpin the sporting system.”
FCRI Statement
Despite being suspended from his role in November, the Sri Lankan-born official has remained visible within the national setup.
Ekneligoda is the partner of FCRI president Maria Lorena Haz Paz and accompanied her to India for the men’s T20 World Cup.
BBC Sport has seen evidence of him attending Italy’s matches wearing official accreditation alongside the FCRI party.
He was also present at official events, including a reception at the Italian consulate in Kolkata.
It is understood that the federation and its safeguarding officers were fully aware of the serious nature of the claims before traveling to the tournament.