KCA Suspends Sreesanth for Three Years Amid Sanju Samson Controversy

In a significant disciplinary move, the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has suspended former Indian cricketer S. Sreesanth from all association-related cricketing activities for a period of three years. The decision was made at a special General Body meeting held in Kochi on April 30, 2025, following Sreesanth’s controversial remarks criticizing the association over the exclusion of Sanju Samson from the Indian squad for the ICC Champions Trophy.

Why in News?

S. Sreesanth, a former India pacer and current co-owner of the Aries Kollam Sailors team in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL), has been suspended by the KCA due to his public criticism of the association regarding Sanju Samson’s non-selection for the national team. This development has drawn public and media attention due to its implications on cricket governance and disciplinary mechanisms within state associations.

Suspension Decision

• KCA suspended S. Sreesanth for three years from all cricketing activities under its purview.
• Action taken after a special General Body meeting held on April 30, 2025, in Kochi.

Triggering Incident

• Sreesanth made public and critical remarks against KCA after Sanju Samson was excluded from India’s ICC Champions Trophy squad.

Sreesanth’s Role

• Co-owner of Aries Kollam Sailors, a KCL franchise team.
• His involvement raised concerns about the conduct of management-level individuals in franchise cricket.

Other Related Actions

• KCA issued show-cause notices to Aries Kollam Sailors and Alleppey Ripples for management behavior.
• The franchises were not penalized, as their replies were deemed satisfactory.
• Advisory issued to franchises for exercising caution in appointments.

Defamation Case Filed

KCA also initiated compensation claims against,

• Sanju Samson’s father Samson Viswanath
• Former cricketer Reji Lukose
• A Malayalam news anchor
• The cases concern alleged defamatory statements made in public and social media platforms.

Significance of the Issue

• Highlights the growing influence of franchise-based cricket structures even at the state level.
• Raises questions about the freedom of speech vs. disciplinary norms in sports organizations.
• Shows KCA’s intent to protect institutional integrity and ensure discipline in public discourse.