Italian Cricket Federation Plunged into Crisis Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

Rome, Italy – Just days after making its historic debut in the T20 World Cup, Italian cricket is grappling with a severe crisis stemming from allegations of sexual assault against a senior official. Federazione Cricket Italiana (FCRI) women’s cricket co-ordinator, Prabath Ekneligoda, 57, is currently under criminal investigation following claims of inappropriate touching made by a member of the national women’s team. The allegations have triggered resignations within the FCRI board and raised serious questions about governance within the organization, threatening to derail the momentum gained from the team’s recent international exposure.

Investigation and Initial Response

The allegations center around an incident that allegedly occurred during a training session in March 2024. The player, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, reported to police in Rome that the assault took place during a massage intended to treat a knee injury. She reportedly feared reporting the incident earlier, believing it could jeopardize her position on the team. BBC Sport reports that an investigation was concluded by a Rome prosecutor in November 2025, and Ekneligoda was interviewed by police the following month.

A decision is now set to be made on whether there is sufficient evidence to bring the case to trial. Ekneligoda’s lawyer maintains his client denies the allegations, claiming ulterior motives and citing a witness who supports his version of events. The FCRI stated it “noted proceedings are currently under way before the federal prosecutor’s office” and will “co-operate with the relevant authorities.”

Governance Concerns and Board Resignations

Multiple members of the Italy board are said to have resigned over this case and other governance issues, according to BBC Sport. Sources indicate that the situation has placed the position of FCRI president Maria Lorena Haz Paz under greater scrutiny. Despite the seriousness of the claim, Ekneligoda, who is the partner of Haz Paz, was seen at various events during the men’s T20 World Cup in India, including matches and a reception at the Italian consulate in Kolkata, with official accreditation.

Impact on the Sport and Future Outlook

Senior officials in Italian cricket fear potential reputational damage and possible legal cases will hamper opportunities to capitalize on their debut T20 World Cup appearance and further grow the game in the country. Italy’s debut at the T20 World Cup, and the stories of some of their players, had captured the imagination of the cricket world. The Azzurri failed to make the Super 8 stage but beat Nepal in Mumbai and gave England a scare in Kolkata in their Group C fixtures.

Key Takeaways

• Prabath Ekneligoda, the FCRI women’s cricket co-ordinator, is under criminal investigation for sexual assault.
• The allegations stem from an incident in March 2024 during a training session.
• Multiple board members have resigned from the FCRI amid the crisis.
• The FCRI is cooperating with authorities, but the situation poses a threat to the sport’s growth in Italy.