Former Sri Lankan cricketer banned for 20 years by Cricket Australia

Dulip Samaraweera, a former Sri Lankan cricketer and former head coach of Cricket Victoria, has been slapped with a 20-year ban from holding any position within Cricket Australia or its affiliated associations. The decision was announced on Thursday by Cricket Australia, following a thorough investigation into allegations of serious misconduct.

The Conduct Commission, after a detailed review, found that Samaraweera's behavior violated section 2.23 of Cricket Australia's Code of Conduct. The specific allegations of inappropriate conduct occurred during his brief tenure as head coach of Cricket Victoria. Samaraweera resigned from the position in May of this year, just two weeks after assuming the role.

Cricket Victoria CEO Nick Cummins, in a statement at the time of Samaraweera's departure, indicated that there were internal policy conflicts related to a specific coaching appointment Samaraweera had requested.

"During the recruitment process Dulip had expressed a desire to make a specific coaching appointment in his support team. That appointment was unable to be facilitated due to internal policies we have in place. Following further conversations, Dulip decided he would prefer not to remain in the role," Nick said.

In a released official statement on Thursday, Cricket Australia stated: "The CA Integrity Department investigates complaints brought to it under Integrity Codes and Policies which also apply to State & Territory Associations. The Conduct Commission hears matters referred to it by CA Integrity. CA and CV are committed to providing a safe environment for all players and employees and the welfare of those subjected to mistreatment is paramount."

Samaraweera, who represented Sri Lanka in seven Tests and five T20Is during his playing career, will be ineligible to hold any position within Cricket Australia or its affiliated associations for the next two decades.