Sri Lanka says had 'no choice but to abstain from voting' during ICC 'revamp' meet

Sri Lanka has reportedly defended its decision to tacitly support a controversial shakeup of cricket's world body, saying it was left with no choice after South Africa broke ranks over the move.

Sri Lanka, Pakistan and South Africa all opposed the revamp of the ICC's governance and structure when it was debated last month, although Sri Lanka decided to abstain from voting on the move during an ICC board meeting, along with Pakistan, after South Africa switched to vote in favour.

According to The Dawn, eight of the ten Test-playing nations approving the plans despite concerns it gives too much power to the 'Big Three' of India, England and Australia.

Sri Lankan sports minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage accused South Africa of letting Sri Lanka down at the ICC meeting and said that Sri Lanka had no choice but to abstain from voting as they were banking on Cricket South Africa's (CSA) CEO Haroon Lorgat's opposition.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) released a statement defending their move, saying that 'considering the circumstances it was most appropriate'.

Pakistan has already said it felt cheated by South Africa over its reversal to support the wide-ranging restructuring.

Under the revamp, India, which contributes 80 percent of global revenues, and fellow powerhouses England and Australia will have permanent seats on a new, five-member executive committee, the report added.