Shanaka in trouble with SLC after two matches in two countries in one day

Dasun Shanaka is facing an inquiry by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) after allegedly leaving a first-class match early to play in the ILT20 tournament for the Dubai Capitals in the UAE on February 2.

Allegations and Inquiry

SLC’s chargesheet alleges that Shanaka misled first-class match referee Wendell Labrooy into believing he had a concussion to get a substitute approved. SLC CEO Ashley de Silva mentioned that Shanaka’s first-class club, Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), is also likely to conduct its own inquiry.

Shanaka clarified that SLC CEO Ashley de Silva and others were aware of his Dubai plans. He stated that he sought medical clearance for a neck injury sustained while batting before leaving for the UAE.

Shanaka’s Explanation

Shanaka said that SLC and his club knew he had to leave and that he only returned because SSC requested him to play the first-class match. He added that his other team in Dubai wanted him back, as he had helped them win two earlier games.

Sequence of events

• Shanaka played for SSC in the Major League Tournament against Moors Sports Club, as SSC was striving to avoid relegation.
• He bowled 21 overs and took a wicket on the first day and scored an unbeaten 39 on day two. On the third day, he scored 123 off 87 balls.
• After his dismissal on the third morning, he did not bowl in the Moors’ innings.
• Later that same evening, he appeared for the Dubai Capitals, scoring 34 off 12 balls. He also did not bowl in that game.

Context

• Shanaka had been recalled from the ILT20 by SSC for the match.
• After the SSC game, Shanaka played three more matches in ILT20.
• The board has yet to determine if Shanaka exited the club game under suspicious circumstances.
• Dubai Capitals were eventually crowned champions.