Taking a strict stance on players switching leagues, the Pakistan Cricket Board has banned Dasun Shanaka for one season after the Sri Lankan all-rounder opted out of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) to join the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Shanaka, who was part of Lahore Qalandars, withdrew from the tournament and was later signed by Rajasthan Royals on March 23 as a replacement for injured Sam Curran in IPL 2026.
In an official statement, the PCB termed Shanaka’s withdrawal a “clear breach” of the player registration terms and the tripartite agreement.
“Following a comprehensive review… the player’s unilateral withdrawal from the tournament on March 21, 2026, constituted a clear breach… Effective immediately, Dasun Shanaka has been declared ineligible to participate in the next edition of the PSL (2027),” the board said.
The decision highlights PCB’s increasing firmness on contract obligations, especially amid growing instances of players prioritising IPL opportunities over PSL commitments.
Notably, this is not an isolated case. Earlier, the PCB had also taken action against Blessing Muzarabani, handing the fast bowler a two-season ban after he withdrew from his PSL contract to join Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026. The move, however, was contested by the player’s agency, which questioned the legality of the decision.
The PCB also acknowledged Shanaka’s apology, which may have played a role in limiting the ban to one season.
“I deeply regret my decision to withdraw from the PSL and offer my sincere apologies… I fully understand the disappointment caused by my actions,” Shanaka said, addressing fans and the wider cricket community.
He further clarified that he had no intention of joining another league at the time of his withdrawal and expressed hope of returning to the PSL in the future with “renewed dedication.”