The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a one-year ban on Dasun Shanaka from the Pakistan Super League after breaching his contract in the 2026 season, underscoring its tougher stance on player commitments amid growing clashes with the Indian Premier League.
Shanaka was signed by Lahore Qalandars for PSL 2026 after entering the auction, with a deal worth around PKR 75 lakh. However, he pulled out just days before the tournament to join Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for the injured Sam Curran in the IPL. As a result, the 34-year-old has been ruled out of the next edition of the PSL.
The PCB considered this late selection to be a direct breach of contractual obligations. After Shanaka committed to the PSL franchise, the last-minute decision to switch leagues disrupted the team’s planning and undermined the league’s contractual framework.
Meanwhile, in a statement issued by the PCB, the Sri Lankan all-rounder apologized for the incident.
“I deeply regret my decision to withdraw from the HBL PSL and sincerely apologize to the people of Pakistan, the fans of the HBL PSL and the wider cricket community,” Shanaka said, according to the PCB.
“HBL 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 to have disappointed you,” Shanaka added.
The decision came amid a growing trend of players favoring IPL opportunities over PSL due to financial and scheduling advantages. With the two leagues now overlapping in their calendars, the PCB has been increasingly vocal in pushing for stricter regulations to ensure players honor their commitments.
PCB PROHIBITS MUZARABANI BLESSINGS FROM PSL
The PCB recently imposed a two-year ban on Muzarabani from the PSL after the pacer made a late switch to the IPL, joining three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders.
In a statement, the PCB said that Muzarabani did not honor his commitments despite clearly agreeing to the key terms and conditions required to participate in the league. Ahead of his move to the IPL, the Zimbabwe fast bowler has agreed a deal with Islamabad United for the 2026 season.
Initially unsold at the PSL auction on 11 February, Muzarabani was later signed by Islamabad United as a replacement for Shamar Joseph. Although he accepted the basic terms of the deal, including the remuneration and contract structure, he eventually decided to join KKR as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman, leading to disciplinary action by the PCB.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
20 Apr 2026 20:49 IST
