Italian cricket is facing serious allegations just days after the national team made history at the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
A player from the Italian women’s team has accused women’s cricket coordinator Prabhat Egneli of inappropriate behavior.
Egneligoda has been suspended by the Italian governing body Federazione Cricket Italiana (FCRI) and the case is now under investigation by the federal prosecutor.
In a statement, the FCRI issued a detailed statement clarifying its position on the latest internal matter, stressing that immediate action has been taken to protect the integrity of the sports environment.
The Governing Body stressed that the decision was precautionary in nature and aimed at protecting all stakeholders by ensuring that due process was fully respected.
“In 2025, the federation confirms that the president of the federation, acting within his institutional responsibilities and keeping in mind the full safety of athletes and other parties, has ordered the immediate precautionary suspension of the person concerned from all federal duties and functions,” the board’s statement said.
“This action was taken for a thorough and conclusive assessment of the circumstances. The decision was taken as a prudent and responsible step to prevent any unnecessary speculation, protect the integrity of the sports environment and ensure that any fact-finding takes place in the appropriate forums.”
Egnelikoda’s lawyer has denied these allegations and said that there may be ulterior motive behind them.
FCRI confirmed that despite the suspension, Egneligoda traveled to the T20 World Cup as President Maria Lorena Haas Pass’s companion and had no official duties or role in the World Cup team.
The board added that it is fully cooperating with the authorities concerned and reserves the right to take further action depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigations.
“It is further noted that proceedings are currently pending before the Federal Prosecutor’s Office, which is responsible for carrying out the assessments and investigations provided for under the Sporting Regulations.”
The allegations come amid wider turmoil within the federation.
Haz Paz was removed from his post after Italy’s T20 World Cup campaign ended and CEO Luca Bruno Malaspina confirmed the resignation of six board members, leading to the dissolution of the Federal Council.
FCRI said the departures were not linked to allegations of harassment.
Italy had a memorable T20 World Cup in the Men’s T20 World Cup, including a 10-wicket win against Nepal and a 24-run defeat against England, before exiting the Super Eight.