New Delhi, 25 February (H.S.): Just days after Italy's historic debut in the T20 World Cup, a major controversy erupted in Italian cricket when a female team player accused the women's cricket coordinator, Prabhat Ekaneligoda, of sexual harassment. Following these allegations, the Italian Cricket Federation (FCRI) has suspended Prabhat Ekaneligoda.

In an official statement issued by FCRI on Tuesday, it was announced that the allegations are under investigation by the federal prosecutor's office.

According to the statement, during the year 2025, the federation's president, in fulfillment of her institutional duties, ordered the immediate precautionary suspension of the concerned official from all federal responsibilities and activities.

The statement further clarified, “This decision has been taken as a precautionary measure pending a thorough and final review of the circumstances. Its purpose is to prevent any speculation, uphold the dignity of the sporting environment, and ensure that the facts are investigated by the appropriate forum with respect for personal honor, due legal process, and the presumption of innocence.”

Media reports indicate that Prabhat Ekaneligoda's lawyer has denied the allegations, suggesting that they may stem from “other motives.”

The board's media manager, Rakbir Hasan, confirmed that Prabhat Ekaneligoda had traveled to India and Sri Lanka with board president Maria Lorena Haz Paz during the T20 World Cup, though he held no official responsibilities.The board has also clarified that proceedings are ongoing before the federal prosecutor's office, with the necessary investigation and evaluation processes underway in accordance with sporting regulations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar