Cricket Australia has issued a 20-year ban to former Sri Lankan Test cricketer Dulip Samaraweera following allegations of misconduct during his tenure as a coach at the Victoria State Cricket Council. The ban was enforced after an internal investigation found him guilty of violating the organization’s Code of Conduct.
The specific nature of the “inappropriate behavior” that led to the ban has not been disclosed in detail, but it was serious enough to warrant a lengthy suspension. As a result of the ruling, Samaraweera is prohibited from holding any position within Cricket Australia, state cricket associations, or any Big Bash League teams during the 20-year period.
Samaraweera, who had a notable career as a Test cricketer for Sri Lanka, transitioned into coaching after his playing days. His role in Australia’s cricketing circles came to an abrupt end following this verdict. Cricket Australia has emphasized that it takes any breach of its Code of Conduct very seriously to ensure the integrity and reputation of the sport is upheld.
This ban marks a significant fall from grace for the former cricketer, whose contributions to the sport both on and off the field had once earned him considerable respect in the cricket community.