Dasun Shanaka Exits PSL to Join IPL: Legal Action Looms

Dasun Shanaka has made the significant decision to withdraw from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) to join the Indian Premier League (IPL), becoming the second player to do so. This move has sparked a response from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which is considering legal action against players who opt for the IPL over the PSL. With both leagues set to run simultaneously, the implications for players and the leagues themselves are profound. The PSL is set to begin on March 26, while the IPL kicks off shortly after on March 28. This article delves into the details of Shanaka's decision and the broader context of the ongoing cricketing calendar.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 23, 2026, 07:10 IST

Dasun Shanaka's Decision to Join IPL

On March 22, Dasun Shanaka made headlines by becoming the second player to withdraw from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in favor of participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL). With both leagues scheduled concurrently, players are faced with the tough choice of which tournament to join. The PSL rosters primarily feature players who either went unsold during the IPL auction or were not considered for the prestigious league.

Shanaka, who did not secure a bid in the IPL 2026 mini-auction, had initially signed with Lahore Qalandars for the PSL. However, he has opted to play for Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL, stepping in as a replacement for Sam Curran. In response to Shanaka's exit, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced potential legal repercussions, stating, "We will take action against those players according to the rules. There was a case last year too, and the same thing will happen this time." He further commented on the situation, saying, "Clashing with the IPL is not an issue because if players are going there, we're getting excellent players coming here as well. We could not afford to postpone the PSL because we have no other window all year."

In a similar move, Blessing Muzarabani also withdrew from the PSL to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL, replacing Mustafizur Rahman. The BCCI had instructed KKR to release Rahman, who subsequently joined Lahore Qalandars before the PSL auction.

Simultaneous IPL and PSL Seasons

The IPL and PSL are once again set to run concurrently. The PSL is scheduled to commence on March 26, with its final taking place on May 3. The IPL 2026 will begin on March 28, culminating in its final on May 31. The previous PSL season ran from April 11 to May 25, while IPL 2025 took place from March 22 to June 3, where Royal Challengers Bengaluru triumphed over Punjab Kings to claim their first title. Additionally, the Pakistan government has imposed a ban on crowds during PSL 2026, and the tournament will be held across two cities.