Sri Lanka cricket board was on Monday sacked by the government in the aftermath of the national team's heavy defeat to hosts India in the ongoing World Cup.
The action followed a public outcry and calls by Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe to Shammi Silva-led SLC to resign after Sri Lanka's 302-run loss to India in Mumbai on November 2.
Since the defeat, several demonstrations were organised opposite the SLC premises, demanding the resignation of the Silva administration.
The riot police were placed to protect the building.
This marked the return of Ranatunga, who also headed a similar interim committee in 2008, at the helm of affairs of Sri Lankan cricket.
Ranatunga, who headed the National Sports Council appointed by Ranasinghe, has been questioning the Silva administration.
Silva was elected as SLC chief in May for his third successive term which was to run until 2025.