"It was felt that it would be too great a risk to stage the tournament in Colombo at a time of year when there was a distinct possibility of rain," Haroon Lorgat, the ICC's chief executive, said. "This was especially relevant given the length of this year's ICC Champions Trophy has been reduced to 12 days, part of our desire to make it a short, sharp event, as on that basis there would be no room for reserve days."

Lorgat, however, said the decision to recommend South Africa as the new host of the tournament was subject to agreement over various financial arrangements. Sources in the CEC told Cricinfo that if the ICC board approves the committee's recommendation, Cricket South Africa (CSA) will then have to confirm whether they accept the event's revenue model.

"South Africa was a successful and excellent host of the ICC World Twenty20 at much the same time of the year, two years ago, and the weather pattern in the area around Johannesburg in September and October is stable and ideal for cricket," Lorgat said.

Duleep Mendis, the SLC's chief executive, had on Tuesday said he was confident Sri Lanka would remain the event's host as they did not expect heavy rains during the tournament.

"We are extremely grateful for Sri Lanka Cricket's willingness to step aside in this matter and for Cricket South Africa's willingness to be considered as the host for the event," Lorgat said.