Dasun Shanaka Faces One-Season Ban from PSL After IPL Move

The Pakistan Cricket Board has imposed a one-season ban on Dasun Shanaka from the Pakistan Super League after he opted out to join the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. This decision follows a breach of contractual agreements, leading to his ineligibility for the 2027 PSL season. Shanaka has expressed regret over his actions and hopes to return to the PSL in the future. This ban comes shortly after a similar penalty was imposed on another player, highlighting the PCB's strict stance on contractual obligations. Read on to learn more about the implications of this decision for Shanaka's career.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 21, 2026, 02:21 IST

PCB Imposes Ban on Shanaka

Karachi [Pakistan], April 20: 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). This decision comes after Shanaka opted out of the current PSL season with Lahore Qalandars to join the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

In an official statement, the PCB indicated that Shanaka's exit from the PSL violated the "Player Registration terms" and the "Tripartite Agreement." Consequently, he will not be eligible to play in the upcoming 2027 PSL season.

The PCB's statement elaborated, "After a thorough examination of the recent contractual issues involving Dasun Shanaka and the Lahore Qalandars, the PCB has reached a final conclusion regarding the player's future participation in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL)."

The review determined that Shanaka's decision to withdraw from the tournament on March 21, 2026, was a clear violation of both the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement, as the reasons for his withdrawal were not recognized under the current contractual guidelines. As a result, he has been declared 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 follows a similar action taken against Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani, who received a two-season ban after withdrawing from his contract with Islamabad United to join Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2026.

The PCB acknowledged Shanaka's expression of regret, as he conveyed his "deep regret" and offered his "sincere apologies" to PSL fans.

"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," he stated.

Shanaka also mentioned that at the time of his withdrawal, he had no plans to join any other league, expressing hope to return to the PSL with "renewed dedication."

"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," he added.