Australia’s squad have raised agitations about their forthcoming tour of Sri Lanka as the country is in the midst of an economic crisis but will back a decision to proceed with the visit, Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg stated.
Sri Lanka is struggling under its worst economic crisis since independence in 1948, with a serious shortage of foreign exchange severely diminishing imports, which includes essentials such as fuel and medicines.
Demonstrations and protests have agitated the country since late March, and violence erupted 2 weeks ago after clashes between government supporters and protesters in Colombo ignited further incidents across the nation that left 9 people dead and about 300 injured.
“The players are very aware of the situation in Sri Lanka,” Greenberg notified the Australian Associated Press.
“It’s fair to say there is a level of discomfort around touring in conditions that contrast those faced by the people of Sri Lanka, such as rising food prices, power cuts and fuel rationing.”
“Ultimately our players want to continue to play cricket and will take direction, guidance and advice from CA about tour arrangements and planning,” he further stated.
Australia have declared 3 strong squads for the seven-week tour in June and July, which counts a Twenty20 series, 5 ODIs as well as 2 tests in Galle.