Former Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka has found himself embroiled in controversy following allegations of faking a concussion during a first-class match in Colombo on February 2. This incident reportedly occurred as he sought to travel to Dubai to participate in the ILT20 game for Dubai Capitals against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders later that evening. Sri Lanka Cricket is preparing to initiate an inquiry into these claims.

As reported by ESPNCricinfo, the chargesheet from Sri Lanka Cricket indicated that first-class match referee Wendell Labrooy was misled into believing that Shanaka had sustained a concussion, which necessitated the approval of a substitute. This assertion was supported by a statement from SLC CEO Ashley de Silva, who mentioned that Shanaka's club, SSC, would likely conduct its own investigation.

In response, Shanaka clarified to the publication that both de Silva and others were aware of his intentions to travel to Dubai. He explained that after his dismissal on the third day of the match, he sought medical clearance from a doctor due to a neck injury sustained while batting, prior to his departure for the UAE.

"SLC and the club were informed of my need to leave," Shanaka stated. "I returned only because SSC requested my participation in this first-class match. However, my other team was eager for my return, as I had previously contributed to two victories for them in the tournament."

Shanaka scored a century before leaving for Dubai

In an effort to evade relegation, SSC summoned three of their Sri Lankan players from the ILT20 to participate in the match against Moors Sports Club in the Major League Tournament. On the opening day, one player took a wicket during his 21 overs, and on the second day, he scored an unbeaten 39, ultimately converting it into a century on the final morning, finishing with a total of 123 runs off 87 balls.

Shanaka did not continue in the match after that, but he reappeared in Dubai later that evening, where he scored 34 runs off 12 balls while batting at No. 5 for Dubai Capitals. He also did not bowl in that match. Subsequently, the all-rounder chose not to return home, as he participated in three additional matches in the ILT20, contributing to his team's title victory.

The Sri Lanka Cricket Board has yet to determine whether Shanaka left the club match for questionable reasons.

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