The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken disciplinary action against Dasun Shanaka, banning him from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for one season after determining that he violated contractual commitments with Lahore Qalandars.
Shanaka had originally been picked up by Lahore Qalandars at the player auction for PKR 75 lakh. However, before the tournament began, he pulled out of the PSL to accept a deal in the Indian Premier League, signing with Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for Sam Curran.
"The review concluded that the player's unilateral withdrawal from the tournament constituted a clear breach of both the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement. The findings indicated that the withdrawal was made on grounds not recognized within the existing contractual framework. 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," the PCB said in a statement.
Shanaka, meanwhile, expressed his regret at pulling out of the PSL.
"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 as quoted by the PCB.
"The HBL 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 HBL 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 HBL PSL in the future with renewed dedication and the trust of the fans," it added.
This decision comes days after Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani was handed a two-season ban for pulling out of his deal with Islamabad United to join Kolkata Knight Riders.