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Sri Lanka's Niroshan Dickwella suspended from all forms of cricket

Dickwella has a history of off-field issues, having been banned for one year in 2021 for breaching COVID-19 protocols during a tour of the UK

Sri Lanka's Niroshan Dickwella suspended from all forms of cricket PHOTO: AFP

Niroshan Dickwella, a batter for the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team, has been suspended from all forms of cricket. Media reports suggest that the keeper-batter faces a ban due to an alleged anti-doping violation.

Dickwella is accused of violating anti-doping rules during the recent Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2024. As investigations proceed, he is prohibited from participating in cricket or any sports-related activities, including training. This suspension presents a significant challenge to his career.

The Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency conducted a doping test at the end of the LPL, which reportedly found cocaine in Dickwella's system. This test result is a serious concern for the former captain of the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team. An official statement on this matter is expected soon.

Dickwella has a history of off-field issues, having been banned for one year in 2021 for breaching COVID-19 protocols during a tour of the UK. In the most recent LPL, he captained the Galle Marvels and scored 184 runs in 10 innings with a strike rate of 153.33, leading his team to the final. However, in the final match, he managed only 5 runs from 8 balls, and his team lost to the Jaffna Kings.

His last appearance for the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team was in a Test match in 2023, and his last white-ball game was in 2022. Throughout his career, he has captained the team and accumulated 2,757 runs in Tests, 1,604 runs in ODIs, and 480 runs in T20Is.