Australia players raise ethical concerns about touring Sri Lanka amid economic crisis

Australia have already announced their squads for the tour of Sri Lanka where they will play 3 T20Is, 5 ODIs and 2 Tests in June-July.

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg on Wednesday said members of the Australian squad have raised ethical concerns about touring Sri Lanka at a time when the island nation is going through a severe economic crisisis. However, Greenberg said the CA would back a decision to go ahead with the tour.

Australia are scheduled to play 2 Tests, 5 ODIs and 3 T20Is in June-July in Sri Lanka and the CA has already announced three strong squads for the tour.

Sri Lanka has seen a severe shortage of foreign currency reserves which has had a huge impact on curtailing imports, which include essentials such as fuel and medicines. Violent protests erupted across the country and the continuing crisis led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. The new prime minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, has been appealing for foreign help to bail out the country.

"The players are very aware of the situation in Sri Lanka," Greenberg told the AAP.

"It's fair to say there is a level of discomfort around touring in conditions that contrast those faced by the people of Sri Lanka, such as rising food prices, power cuts and fuel rationing.

"Ultimately, our players want to continue to play cricket and will take direction, guidance and advice from CA about tour arrangements and planning."

Australia will begin their tour with a 3-match T20I series in Colombo from June 7. The 5-match ODi series will be played from June 14 to 24 while the two Tests will be played in Galle.