The Dasun Shanaka PSL ban was confirmed after the Pakistan Cricket Board barred the Sri Lankan all-rounder from taking part in PSL 12, citing a contractual breach linked to his withdrawal from Lahore Qalandars before the current season.
Shanaka had been signed by defending champions Lahore Qalandars for Rs7.5 million in the accelerated round of the players’ auction in February. However, the franchise later announced that he withdrew on March 21, 2026, just days before PSL 11 began, and replaced him with Australia’s Daniel Sams.
The PCB said it conducted a comprehensive assessment of the contractual developments involving Shanaka and Lahore Qalandars following his late withdrawal from the tournament.
The board concluded that the unilateral withdrawal amounted to a clear breach of the player registration terms and the tripartite agreement. It also said the reasons cited by Shanaka were not covered under the existing contractual framework.
PCB Says Action Was Needed to Protect League Integrity
While acknowledging Shanaka’s expressions of regret and his wish to continue playing in Pakistan, the PCB said the seriousness of the breach required regulatory action.
The board argued that the decision was necessary to protect the integrity and exclusivity of the Pakistan Super League. As a result, Shanaka has now been barred from participating in PSL 12 with immediate effect.
In a statement released by the PCB, Shanaka apologised to Pakistani fans, the wider cricket community and Lahore Qalandars supporters.
He said he deeply regretted his decision to withdraw from the HBL PSL and understood the disappointment his actions had caused. He also said he was truly sorry for letting down Lahore Qalandars fans.
Shanaka further clarified that at the time of his withdrawal, he had no intention of joining any other franchise league. He said he respects Pakistani fans and hopes to return to the HBL PSL in the future with renewed dedication and the trust of supporters.
Lahore Qalandars moved quickly after Shanaka’s withdrawal and brought in Daniel Sams as his replacement ahead of the ongoing tournament.
That late squad change added significance to the case, especially because the player had already been signed and then pulled out close to the start of the competition. The PCB’s action now sends a message about how seriously it intends to treat late withdrawals that fall outside accepted contractual terms.
