Dasun Shanaka has been handed a one-year ban from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after leaving Lahore Qalandars to join Rajasthan Royals in the IPL.
Dasun Shanaka handed one-year PSL ban for leaving Lahore Qalandars to join Rajasthan Royals
Defending PSL champions had signed the Sri Lanka T20 captain at the auction earlier this year for PKR 7.5 million. However, before Lahore’s season opener against Hyderabad Kingsmen, Shanaka withdrew from PSL 2026. Subsequently, Rajasthan Royals announced his signing as Sam Curran’s replacement, while Lahore signed Daniel Sams.
After a review into the all-rounder’s withdrawal, the PCB handed him a one-year ban, barring him from featuring in the 2027 season of the PSL. The board's statement clarified that Shanaka had breached the terms of his contract and thus was sanctioned.
“The findings indicated that the withdrawal was made on grounds not recognised within the existing contractual framework,” the statement read. “While the Board has taken note of the player’s expressions of regret and his stated passion for playing in Pakistan during the formal hearing, the severity of the contractual violations necessitates regulatory action to maintain the integrity and exclusivity of the League.”
Dasun Shanaka second player to receive PSL ban this year after Blessing Muzarabani
Shanaka issued an apology as well, claiming that he hadn’t planned to join another league when he withdrew from the PSL. He is yet to make an appearance for the Royals in the ongoing season.
“I deeply regret my decision to withdraw from the PSL and offer my sincere apologies to the people of Pakistan, the fans of PSL, and the wider cricket community,” he said. “The PSL is a prestigious tournament, and I fully understand the disappointment caused by my actions. To the loyal fans of Lahore Qalandars, I am truly sorry for letting you down.
“I must clarify that at the time I withdrew from the PSL I had no intention of joining any other tournament. I have the greatest respect for Pakistani Fans and 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."
The Sri Lanka all-rounder is the second player this year to be banned from the PSL. Blessing Muzarabani, who was picked up by Islamabad United for the 2026 season, was handed a two-year ban recently. Kolkata Knight Riders signed him as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman, and he opted to play the IPL over the PSL. The bowler’s agency, however, has since claimed that he hadn’t signed any contract with the franchise.
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