In a major improvement forward of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka has determined to skip the upcoming season of Pakistan Tremendous League (PSL) and hyperlink up with the Rajasthan Royals (RR). In accordance with studies, the transfer comes as a late alternative signing, with Shanaka set to fill the void left by England’s Sam Curran, who’s reportedly sidelined because of harm.
Dasun Shanaka replaces injured Sam Curran in RR squad
The Royals have turned to Shanaka as a backup after issues emerged over Curran’s health. The England all-rounder, who was traded from Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) forward of the season, is believed to be nursing a groin harm that has dominated him out of IPL 2026.
Shanaka, who went unsold within the IPL 2026 mini public sale, had initially dedicated to the PSL, the place Lahore Qalandars secured his companies for PKR 75 lakh. Nevertheless, the chance to play within the IPL—broadly considered the premier T20 league—has prompted the 34-year-old to make a late change.
For Rajasthan Royals, Shanaka’s inclusion provides depth to their center order and offers a dependable seam-bowling possibility, strengthening the stability of the squad.
Rising pattern of gamers prioritising IPL over PSL
Shanaka’s determination marks yet one more occasion of gamers selecting the IPL over the PSL. Earlier this season, Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani opted to affix Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a alternative for Mustafizur Rahman, skipping his PSL stint with Islamabad United.
This pattern will not be completely new. Final 12 months, South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch made headlines after shifting from Peshawar Zalmi within the PSL to Mumbai Indians within the IPL. His determination led to a one-year ban from the PSL, highlighting the rising stress between the 2 leagues.
Regardless of the PSL scheduling its window alongside the IPL to retain abroad expertise, the technique has not yielded the specified outcomes. The IPL’s international enchantment, monetary incentives, and aggressive platform proceed to draw gamers, typically on the expense of different leagues.
Additionally READ: PCB unveils complete schedule for PSL 2026; Lahore Qalandars to face Hyderabad Kingsmen in the opener
PCB considers strict motion amid contract breaches
The repeated withdrawals haven’t gone unnoticed. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi not too long ago addressed the difficulty, indicating that the board might take strict and even authorized motion in opposition to gamers who fail to honor their PSL contracts.
Talking in Lahore on Sunday, March 22, Naqvi emphasised the necessity to defend the league’s integrity and be sure that contractual obligations are revered. The PCB is reportedly exploring measures to stop additional last-minute exits by abroad gamers.
Additionally READ: Former opener predicts SRH’s leading run-scorer and highest wicket-taker for IPL 2026
