Shanaka handed one‑year PSL ban after contract breach ruling

Dasun Shanaka has been suspended from the Pakistan Super League for one year after a PCB review concluded he breached his contract with both the league and Lahore Qalandars. The Sri Lankan all‑rounder, signed for PKR seventy‑five lakh for the 2026 season, withdrew from the tournament on March 21 before joining the Rajasthan Royals a day later as Sam Curran’s replacement in the IPL.

The PCB stated that Shanaka’s unilateral withdrawal violated the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement, noting that his reasons were not recognised within the contractual framework. While acknowledging his regret, the Board stressed that disciplinary action was necessary to protect the league’s integrity. Shanaka apologised publicly, insisting he had not intended to join another competition at the time of his exit and expressing hope of returning to the PSL in the future. His case follows a growing trend of players leaving the PSL for IPL opportunities, with several others sanctioned recently.