Dasun Shanaka In Trouble For Abandoning First-Class Game Midway To Play In ILT20

An Inquiry will be conducted against former Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka, who had allegedly abandoned a first-class match midway to appear in an ILT20 game for Dubai Capitals after giving the impression that he was concussed, according to a report on ESPNCricinfo.

Shanaka, who turned up for Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) on January 31, played the first two days fully, which included bowling 21 overs and also ended the day unbeaten on 39. However, on the third day, he raced to 123 off just 87 deliveries but did not return to the field after he was dismissed.

Match referee Wendell Labrooy was led to believe that Shanaka had a concussion in order to get a substitute on the field. In addition to the inquiry by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), Shanaka will also be subject to an inquiry by the SSC. "SSC [Shanaka's first-class club] would probably be conducting their own inquiry as well, "CEO Ashley de Silva told ESPNcricinfo.

However, according to Shanaka, the club and de Silva were aware of his plans to return to the UAE. "SLC and the club knew I had to leave," Shanaka said. 

"I only came back because there was a request from the SSC to play this first-class match. But my other team wanted me back, as I'd helped win two games for them earlier in the tournament."

On the same day, the all-rounder turned up for the Capitals in the ILT20, scoring 34 off 12 at No. 5 to help his side to a formidable 217 against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

Shanaka played three more games in the tournament to help the Capitals win their maiden ILT20 title.