New Delhi: Following the conclusion of the ICC T20 World Cup, the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) are now set to commence. Discussions surrounding both of these leagues are resonating across the globe. Cricketers from all over the world participate in both the IPL and the PSL. However, the PSL has suffered yet another major setback. The league, scheduled to begin on March 26, has been dealt a significant blow.
Dasun Shanaka, the captain of the Sri Lankan cricket team, has opted out of the PSL to join the IPL instead. Just a few days ago, Zimbabwean bowler Blessing Muzarabani dealt a similar blow to the PSL by joining the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). All in all, the Pakistani league has recently faced two major setbacks.
Which Team Has Dasun Shanaka Joined?
According to a report by *Cricbuzz*, a senior official from the Rajasthan Royals confirmed that the franchise is very close to signing Dasun Shanaka, with only a few final formalities remaining to be completed. Shanaka is set to replace Sam Curran in the Rajasthan squad, as Curran has been ruled out of the 2026 IPL season due to an injury.
Shanaka had gone unsold during the mini-auction held last December. Subsequently, during the PSL auction, he was acquired by the Lahore Qalandars for a bid of 7.5 million Pakistani Rupees.
Why Was Shanaka the Rajasthan Royals’ Choice?
The Rajasthan Royals’ decision to target Dasun Shanaka does not come as a major surprise. As an all-rounder himself, he is well-equipped to effectively fill the void left by Sam Curran. However, the primary reason behind this move is the presence of Rajasthan Royals’ Head Coach, Kumar Sangakkara, who hails from Sri Lanka.
During the 2026 T20 World Cup, Vikram Rathour served as the batting coach for the Sri Lankan cricket team. Rathour now serves as an assistant coach alongside Sangakkara within the Rajasthan Royals setup. Consequently, both coaches are intimately familiar with Shanaka’s playing style.
The PCB Has Also Issued a warning.
Players are increasingly opting to leave the Pakistan Super League to join the Indian Premier League. This has caused significant concern within the Pakistan Cricket Control Board. Speaking to the media on the matter, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that legal action could be initiated against any players who have breached their PSL contracts.