Dulip Samaraweera receives second ban for inappropriate behavior

Former Sri Lanka Test cricketer and coach Dulip Samaraweera has received an additional 10-year ban from Cricket Australia (CA) for misconduct. This follows an earlier 20-year suspension for inappropriate behavior towards a female player. The new ban comes after allegations of similar behavior towards another player during his time as a private coach while employed by Cricket Victoria.  

Samaraweera has denied the latest allegations but did not participate in CA's investigation. The new 10-year ban will run alongside his initial 20-year suspension, meaning he cannot be involved in Australian cricket until 2044, when he will be 72 years old.  

The former coach, who played seven Tests for Sri Lanka from 1993 to 1995, had been part of Cricket Victoria’s women’s program for nearly 16 years. He also served as an assistant coach for the WBBL’s Melbourne Stars and was Victoria's interim head coach last season. However, he resigned in May due to Cricket Victoria's conflict of interest policy.  

Cricket Victoria CEO Nick Cummins had previously condemned Samaraweera’s behavior as “utterly reprehensible” after CA’s initial investigation. "The victim in this case has shown incredible courage in speaking up," Cummins said. "We will continue to support her to achieve her goals on and off the field."  

So far, neither complainant has pursued criminal charges. CA has reiterated its commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment for all players and staff. Samaraweera’s actions have been described as a betrayal of these values.