Big scene for Sri Lankan …Down Under

Johann Dias Jayasinha, who is the National Operations and Media Manager at SNNI Australia, with over two decades of experience in both domestic and international cricket, has been appointed a Multicultural Ambassador for Cricket Australia.

Throughout his career, and in his capacity as a ‘2022 T20 Champion of the ICC T20 group, Johann has been privileged to work with Cricket Australia, the ICC, Cricket Victoria, Melbourne Stars, Melbourne Renegades, and the Hobart Hurricanes.

Additionally, he holds a prestigious qualification in Project Management from Oxford University.

Multicultural Ambassadors for Cricket Australia include Wasim Akram, Ravi Shastri, Usman Khawaja, Mel Jones, Lisa Sthalekar and Alana King.

In an exclusive interview with The Island, Johann said that he will be advocating to create more opportunities for multicultural members of the community to engage with cricket, break down barriers that exist for multicultural participants in cricket, and support the five main areas of the recently release Multicultural Action Plan.

Cricket Australia CEO, Nick Hockley had this to say:

“We are thrilled to welcome such a dynamic and diverse group as Multicultural Ambassadors. Their collective leadership, expertise and passion will be instrumental in driving meaningful change and fostering a more inclusive cricketing community.

“The Multicultural Ambassador Programme represents Cricket Australia’s unwavering commitment to creating a sport that reflects contemporary Australian society and embraces individuals from all backgrounds. Through collaboration and collective action, the programme aims to ensure that cricket remains a welcoming and inclusive sport for all.

“Our objectives are clear: to create more opportunities for multicultural members of the community to engage with cricket, break down barriers, build trust, and drive progress.”

Australian Test player, Usman Khawaja said:

“I am proud to sign on as one of Cricket Australia’s Multicultural Ambassadors. I see the sport as a bridge that connects communities and welcomes all, fostering understanding, respect, and unity.

“As a sport we need to take the next step to ensure we get a greater and more equitable representation of the community, as a whole, by creating opportunities, celebrating our shared love for the game, and inspiring members of all backgrounds to get involved.”

New plan to Drive Growth in Women and Girls’ Cricket, and Johann Dias Jayasinha is ready to do the needful

Former Australian player and cricket commentator, Lisa Sthalekar commented:

“Being a Cricket Australia Multicultural Ambassador is an incredible honour. It’s a role that allows me to celebrate and promote the diversity that makes our sport so vibrant and inclusive.

“Cricket has the power to unite people from all backgrounds, and I am committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome and inspired to be a part of the game.”

Engaged for an initial two-year period, the diverse lineup of ambassadors reflects a broad spectrum of cultural backgrounds, with representatives from Indian, Sri Lankan, Pakistani, Indigenous Australian, Bangladeshi, Nepali, and Afghani communities.

Among the ambassadors are distinguished high-profile figures, influential business leaders and community champions. This diverse composition ensures a multifaceted approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities related to diversity and inclusion in cricket and society across all levels.

Johann Dias Jayasinha is very active in The Island scene, as well, and keeps us updated on the latest happenings in Melbourne.