LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has banned Sri Lanka’s Dasun Shanaka from playing in the next edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for one year, ruling that his last-minute withdrawal from the ongoing tournament violated contractual obligations.
Last minutes exit before PSL 11
Shanaka was picked up by defending champions Lahore Qalandars for Rs7.5 million during the accelerated round of the first-ever players auction held in February this year.
However, merely three days ahead of PSL 11, the franchise announced that the Sri Lankan all-rounder had pulled out citing personal reasons. He was subsequently replaced by Australian Daniel Sams.
🚨 DASUN SHANAKA BANNED 🚨
PCB & PSL management banned Dasun Shanaka 🇱🇰 for 1 year for violating PSL contract. pic.twitter.com/zHCygr2Kui
— HAMAS 🇵🇰 (@HamasulGhani) April 20, 2026
PCB rules unilateral withdrawal a clear breach
PCB stated that it carried out a detailed review of the contractual situation between Shanaka and Lahore Qalandars following the player’s withdrawal on March 21, 2026. The board found that the unilateral decision amounted to a direct violation of player registration terms and the tripartite agreement, adding that the reasons given for pulling out were not covered under the existing contract.
While acknowledging Shanaka’s regret and his expressed wish to continue playing in Pakistan, the PCB maintained that the seriousness of the breach required regulatory action to protect the league’s integrity and exclusivity. Consequently, Shanaka has been barred from featuring in PSL 12, with immediate effect.
Shanaka Apologises to Pakistani Fans
In a statement released by the PCB, the Sri Lankan all-rounder offered a sincere apology to Pakistani fans and the broader cricket community.
“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. “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.”
He also clarified that at the time of his withdrawal, he had no intention of joining any other league, stressing his deep respect for Pakistani fans and his hope to return to the PSL soon.
“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 HBL PSL in the future with renewed dedication and the trust of the fans.”
