COLOMBO, April 1: Sri Lanka’s chairman of cricket selectors Guy de Alwis has resigned, complaining of persistent political interference in the selection process.

De Alwis, a notable absentee at a press conference on Monday to discuss selection for Sharjah Cup, had only just been re-appointed chairman of a new five-man panel.

However, refusal of Johnston Fernando, Minister of Sports, to ratify his original 15-man squad for the four-nation tournament was the last straw.

Speaking to the Island newspaper, he launched a scathing attack on Fernando’s continual interference, claiming he had no option but to stand down.

“The Minister of Sports has interfered in everything from the time I took over and there is no way that I can continue in such circumstances,” said de Alwis.

“Every single time I sent in a team for ministerial approval he has opposed it and you simply cant work like this,” he added.

He is the third chairman of selectors to resign during Fernando’s one and a half year tenure in charge. Aravinda de Silva, recently appointed as a selector by Fernando against the advice of the cricket board, is now the leading candidate for the chairmanship.—PPI