Pakistan bans Dasun Shanaka for one year from PSL

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a one-year ban on Sri Lanka T20 captain Dasun Shanaka from participating in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), following his unilateral withdrawal from the ongoing 2026 season while representing Lahore Qalandars.

According to the PCB, the decision comes after a comprehensive review of Shanaka’s contractual obligations and his sudden exit from the tournament on March 21, 2026. The Board concluded that his withdrawal amounted to a clear breach of both the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement.

The PCB stated that the reasons provided for the withdrawal were not recognized under the existing contractual framework, making regulatory action necessary to protect the integrity of the league.

While acknowledging Shanaka’s expressions of regret during the hearing, the PCB emphasized that maintaining the professionalism and exclusivity of the PSL remains a priority, leading to the decision to bar him from the next edition of the tournament scheduled for 2027.

In an official statement, Dasun Shanaka expressed deep regret over his decision and apologized to fans, the Lahore Qalandars franchise, and the broader Pakistani cricket community, stating that he holds great respect for cricket in Pakistan and hopes to return to the league in the future.

The PCB reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing strict contractual standards to safeguard the reputation and long-term stability of the Pakistan Super League.