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LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a one-year ban on Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka after ruling that his withdrawal from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 constituted a breach of contract with Lahore Qalandars.
Shanaka, 34, had been signed by the defending champions for PKR 7.5 million for the ongoing edition. However, he pulled out of the tournament to link up with the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as a replacement for the injured Sam Curran.
In an official statement, the PCB confirmed that a detailed review of the matter found Shanaka’s unilateral withdrawal to be in violation of both the Player Registration terms and the tripartite agreement governing PSL contracts.
“Following a comprehensive review of the recent contractual developments involving Dasun Shanaka and the Lahore Qalandars, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued its final determination regarding the player’s eligibility for future editions of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL),” the board stated.
As a result, Shanaka has been declared ineligible for the next edition of the PSL, effectively ruling him out of PSL 12, scheduled for 2027.
“The review concluded that the player’s unilateral withdrawal from the tournament on March 21, 2026, constituted a clear breach of both the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement,” the statement added.
“The findings indicated that the withdrawal was made on grounds not recognised within the existing contractual framework.
“Effective immediately, Dasun Shanaka has been declared ineligible to participate in the next edition of the Pakistan Super League (HBL PSL 12), scheduled for 2027.”
While accepting the decision, the Sri Lankan all-rounder issued a public apology, expressing remorse over his actions and the disappointment caused to fans and stakeholders.
“I deeply regret my decision to withdraw from the HBL PSL and offer my sincere apologies to the people of Pakistan, the fans of HBL PSL, and the wider cricket community,” Shanaka said.
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