In an important development ahead Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026The Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka decided to skip the upcoming season Pakistan Super League (PSL) and connect with Rajasthan Royals (RR). The move comes as a late replacement signing, with Shanaka set to fill the void left by the England international, according to reports. Sam Curranhe is reportedly out of action due to injury.
Dasun Shanaka replaces the injured Sam Curran in the RR squad
After concerns arose about Curran’s physical condition, the Kings turned to Shanaka as a backup. Traded England all-rounder Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the pre-season, he is believed to be nursing a groin injury that has ruled him out of IPL 2026.
Unsold in the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Shanaka was initially committed to the PSL, where Lahore Qalandars secured his services for PKR 75 lakh. However, the opportunity to play in the IPL – widely regarded as the premier T20 league – prompted the 34-year-old to make a late switch.
For Rajasthan Royals, Shanaka’s inclusion adds depth to their middle order and strengthens the balance of the squad, providing a reliable seam bowling option.
Growing trend of players preferring IPL over PSL
Shanaka’s decision marks another example of players opting for the IPL over the PSL. Zimbabwe pacer earlier this season Blessed Muzarabani preferred to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a substitute for Mustafizur RahmanSkipped the PSL affair with Islamabad United.
This trend is not entirely new. South African all-rounder last year Corbin Bosch made headlines after the move Peshawar Zalmi In PSL to Mumbai Indians in IPL. His decision led to a one-year ban from the PSL, highlighting the growing tension between the two leagues.
Although the PSL planned its window alongside the IPL to retain overseas talent, the strategy did not pay off. IPL’s global appeal, financial incentives and competitive platform continue to attract players, often at the expense of other leagues.
PCB is taking strict action among contract violations
Repeated withdrawals did not pass without effect. Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Mohsen Naqvi recently addressed the issue, indicating that the board can take strict or even legal action against players who do not comply with their PSL contracts.
Speaking in Lahore on Sunday, March 22, Naqvi stressed the need to protect the integrity of the league and ensure that contractual obligations are met. The PCB is reportedly exploring measures to prevent more last-minute exits from overseas players.
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