The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a one-year ban on Dasun Shanaka, ruling him out of the 2027 edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL 12) after determining that he breached his contractual obligations with Lahore Qalandars.
According to the PCB, Shanaka’s decision to withdraw from PSL 11 on March 21, 2026, was a unilateral move that violated both the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement. The board stated that the reasons provided by the Sri Lankan all-rounder were not valid under the league’s contractual framework, leading to disciplinary action.
Shanaka was picked by Lahore Qalandars in the PSL 11 draft on February 11 for Rs. 75 lakh after going unsold in the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. However, just days before the tournament began, he withdrew and later joined Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for injured England all-rounder Sam Curran.
Following Shanaka’s exit, Lahore Qalandars signed Daniel Sams as his replacement. The PCB’s investigation concluded that Shanaka had committed to the PSL franchise but opted out to pursue another league opportunity, which constituted a clear breach of contract.
Despite issuing a public apology, Shanaka’s explanation did not prevent the ban. He expressed regret over his decision and apologized to PSL fans and the people of Pakistan, stating he hoped to return to the league in the future with renewed commitment. However, the PCB emphasized that maintaining contractual integrity and protecting the exclusivity of the PSL were key reasons behind the decision.
The case has drawn comparisons with a similar controversy involving Blessing Muzarabani, who was handed a two-year ban after leaving Islamabad United to join Kolkata Knight Riders. However, Muzarabani’s representatives have disputed the ruling, claiming no formal contract had been signed.
These incidents highlight growing tensions between franchise leagues and underline the importance of contractual compliance in global T20 cricket.
