Hammer falls on Dasun Shanaka: PCB slaps one-year PSL ban on Sri Lankan star
By Nawaz Gohar ; The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially imposed a one-year ban on Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka. The decision effectively bars the former Sri Lankan skipper from participating in the 2027 edition (HBL PSL 12) following a high-profile contractual dispute with Lahore Qalandars.
The ruling comes after an exhaustive review into Shanaka’s abrupt and unilateral withdrawal from the current season on March 21, 2026. The PCB’s disciplinary committee concluded that the exit was a “clear and unauthorized breach” of both the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement.
According to the PCB’s findings, the grounds cited by Shanaka for his departure were not recognized within the legal framework of the league. While the Board acknowledged the player’s remorse during a formal hearing, they emphasized that the league’s integrity takes precedence.
“The severity of the contractual violations necessitates regulatory action,” the PCB stated. “This decision is vital to maintaining the professional standards and exclusivity of the HBL PSL brand.”
Speaking shortly after the verdict, a visibly regretful Dasun Shanaka offered an unconditional apology to the Pakistani cricketing public. “I deeply regret my decision to withdraw and offer my sincere apologies to the people of Pakistan and the wider cricket community,” Shanaka said. “To the loyal fans of Lahore Qalandars, I am truly sorry for letting you down.”
Addressing rumors regarding his motives, Shanaka clarified that his exit was not a tactical move to join a rival league. “At the time I withdrew, I had no intention of joining any other tournament. I have the greatest respect for Pakistani fans. I hope to return to the PSL in the future and earn back the trust I have lost.”
The ban serves as a landmark ruling for the PCB as it seeks to protect the PSL’s scheduling and franchise stability. By sidelining a player of Shanaka’s caliber for the 2027 season, the Board has signaled that “player power” will not be permitted to override binding legal agreements.
For the Lahore Qalandars, the ruling marks the end of a turbulent chapter in an otherwise high-octane season. For the rest of the league’s international roster, the message is loud and clear: a contract in the PSL is a commitment that cannot be walked away from without consequence.
