Credit: ILT20
Former Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka faces ire from Sri Lanka Cricket for faking concussion in a first-class contest in Colombo, to appear for the ILT20 game between Dubai Capitals match against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders held in the UAE. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has filed a chargesheet against the 33-year-old which alleges that match referee Wendell Labrooy was made to believe Shanaka had a concussion which led to the approval of a substitute. According to SLC CEO, Ashley de Silva, "SSC [Shanaka's first-class club] would probably be conducting their own inquiry as well."
Shanaka countered de Silva’s claims while talking on the matter with ESPNcricinfo, saying de Silva and others were informed about his ILT20 plans. The all-rounder also added that he visited a doctor for medical clearance after leaving the ground on the final morning of the three-day contest in Colombo.
"SLC and the club knew I had to leave. 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," said Shanaka.
Shanaka hit a ton before leaving for Dubai
Shanaka put up extraordinary shows with both bat and ball before his concussion controversy. In the first innings, he picked up a wicket for his side Sinhalese Sports Club against Moors Sports Club. He continued his aggressive approach with the bat as well. The right-handed players notched up 123 runs off just 87.
After leaving the game, Shanaka was seen in the Dubai Capitals’ camp the same evening. Showing up for the Capitals, he hit a swift 34 off 12 with six boundaries (four fours and two maximums). Former Sri Lanka stayed with the Capitals until their last game against Desert Vipers on February 9.
