PCB banned Sri Lanka all-rounder Dasun Shanaka From psl For one season. The board found that Shanaka has violated the agreement made with him Lahore Qalandars By opting out of the PSL and instead joining Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026.
A PCB statement said the decision was taken after a “comprehensive review”. According to the board’s statement, Shanaka was found to have been withdrawn unilaterally, which is “a clear breach of both the player registration conditions and the tripartite agreement”. He will be ineligible to participate in PSL 2027.
The decision on Shanaka came shortly after the board banned Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani for two PSL seasons. Muzarabani had refused his deal with Islamabad United in favor of playing with Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. This is the harshest punishment given by PCB to a player after withdrawing from PSL. However, Muzarabani’s agent has stated on record that the ban was imposed “Incredibly excessive.”
ESPNcricinfo understands that Shanaka received less approval after posting the apology.
“I deeply regret my decision to withdraw from the PSL and I apologize to the people of Pakistan, PSL fans and the wider cricket community,” Shanaka was quoted as saying in a PCB statement. “The PSL is a prestigious tournament, and I completely understand the disappointment caused by my actions. I am truly sorry to disappoint you, the loyal fans of Lahore Qalandars.”
“I must clarify that at the time I withdrew from the PSL, I had no intention of joining any other tournament. I respect the Pakistani fans very much and I have always enjoyed my time in Pakistan. I hope to return to the PSL in the future with renewed dedication and the trust of the fans.”
Before the start of the season, Shanaka left Qalandars, who had bought him in the player auction for a sum of around US$27,000, to join RR as an injury replacement for Sam Curran on a payment of around US$214,000. This move marked his return to the IPL after three years but he has not played any matches yet.
Shanaka becomes the third player after Muzarabani to be banned from participating in PSL South African all-rounder Corbin BoschWho were not allowed to play in the current season after the decision to go to IPL last year.