Italy cricket in crisis over alleged sexual assault by senior figure at national governing body
BBC World
February 23, 2026
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Italy’s cricket community is facing a significant crisis following allegations of sexual assault involving a senior official within its national governing body. Prabath Ekneligoda, the women's cricket coordinator for Federazione Cricket Italiana (FCRI), is under investigation after a player accused him of inappropriate touching during a massage session at a training event. The incident was reported to police in Rome last March, and an investigation concluded in November 2025 with evidence suggesting Ekneligoda attended Italy’s World Cup matches despite being suspended from his role.
Multiple board members have reportedly resigned due to this case and other governance issues, casting doubt on the leadership of FCRI president Maria Lorena Haz Paz. Ekneligoda denies the allegations, claiming they stem from ulterior motives and citing a supportive witness. The federation has deferred to judicial authorities while emphasizing its commitment to fairness and ethical standards. Despite these assurances, the scandal raises concerns about accountability and safety within Italian cricket.
The allegations have sparked widespread criticism, particularly given the fear expressed by the accuser of facing reprisal for speaking out. Ekneligoda’s continued presence at events, including Italy’s World Cup matches, has drawn attention to potential lapses in oversight. Media reports in Italy only recently brought the case to light, further delaying public awareness and fostering mistrust.
This crisis comes as Italian cricket seeks to build momentum following its debut in the T20 World Cup. The federation had hoped to leverage this visibility to grow the sport, but the allegations now threaten its reputation and future opportunities for growth. Senior officials fear reputational damage could undermine efforts to attract sponsors and fans, potentially stifling progress in the country.
The case highlights broader issues of governance and safety within sports organizations globally. It underscores the challenges faced by whistleblowers, particularly women, who often face systemic barriers when reporting misconduct. For readers interested in global sports news and governance, this
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/23/2026