Dasun Shanaka Faces One-Season Ban from PSL 2027

The Pakistan Cricket Board has imposed a one-season ban on Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka from the PSL 2027 after he opted out of the current season to join the IPL's Rajasthan Royals. This decision follows a breach of player registration terms. Shanaka has publicly apologized for his actions, expressing regret and hoping to return to the PSL in the future. His situation mirrors that of Zimbabwean bowler Blessing Muzarabani, who also faced a ban for similar reasons. Read on for more details about the ban and Shanaka's response.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 20, 2026, 23:33 IST

PCB Imposes Ban on Dasun Shanaka

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a one-season ban on Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka from participating in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2027. This decision follows Shanaka's choice to withdraw from the current PSL season with Lahore Qalandars to join the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Rajasthan Royals.

According to a statement from the PCB, Shanaka's exit from the PSL is considered a violation of the "Player Registration terms" and the "Tripartite Agreement." The board confirmed that he will not be allowed to compete in the upcoming PSL season.

The PCB's statement elaborated that after a thorough examination of the contractual situation involving Shanaka and Lahore Qalandars, it was determined that his withdrawal on March 21, 2026, breached both the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement. The findings indicated that the reasons for his withdrawal were not recognized under the current contractual guidelines. Consequently, Shanaka has been deemed ineligible for the next edition of the PSL, set for 2027.

On March 23, Rajasthan Royals announced Shanaka as a replacement for Sam Curran, who was injured and unable to continue in the IPL 2026 season. This decision by the PCB comes shortly after a two-season ban was imposed on Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani for similar reasons.

Shanaka Expresses Regret Over Withdrawal

Dasun Shanaka has publicly apologized for his decision to withdraw from the PSL. He expressed his "deep regret" and extended his "sincere apologies" to PSL fans, stating, "I deeply regret my decision to withdraw from the PSL and offer my sincere apologies to the people of Pakistan, the fans of PSL, and the wider cricket community. 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."

Shanaka clarified that at the time of his withdrawal, he had no plans to join any other league, expressing hope to return to the PSL with a "renewed dedication." He stated, "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 PSL in the future with renewed dedication and the trust of the fans."