Report by SCN Sports Desk
The Pakistan Cricket Board has imposed a one-year ban on Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka from the Pakistan Super League after ruling that his withdrawal from the tournament amounted to a contractual breach.
Shanaka, who was signed by Lahore Qalandars for Rs7.5 million in the players auction earlier this year, pulled out just days before the start of PSL 11, citing personal reasons. He was later replaced by Australia’s Daniel Sams.
Following a detailed review, the PCB concluded that Shanaka’s unilateral withdrawal violated the player registration terms and the tripartite agreement, stating that the reasons provided did not fall within the contractual framework.
The board said the decision to ban Shanaka from PSL 12 was necessary to protect the integrity and exclusivity of the league, despite the player expressing regret and willingness to continue playing in Pakistan.
In a statement, Shanaka apologized to fans, the Lahore Qalandars franchise, and the wider cricket community, calling the PSL a “prestigious tournament” and acknowledging the disappointment caused by his withdrawal. He also clarified that he had no intention of joining any other league at the time and expressed hope to return in the future.