Sri Lanka’s opening batsman Danushka Gunathilaka has been summoned for a preliminary inquiry by the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) today over an alleged misconduct, Cricket Age reliably learns.
The alleged incident, involving Gunathilaka, is supposed to have taken place in Matara. The SLC management committee, headed by dynamic Professor Arjuna de Silva, has appointed a 3 member committee, chaired by renowned Attorney at Law Panduka Keerthinanda, to conduct the inquiry. Other two members of the committee are SLC HR Manager Tanesh Dias and a representative from the Sports Ministry.
In past, SLC soft-pedalled on multiple occasions, when Gunathilaka was found guilty of misbehavior. In 2017, he was suspended for misconduct, having found drunk and turning up to the ground having forgotten his bag. Then, in 2018, he was once again suspended for the home games, following another misconduct incident.
“As he play for Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), the shameless club officials time and again used their power to get Gunathillaka Scot free. It has contributed significantly in making him a serial offender” an expert at Sri Lanka cricket told Cricket Age.
The elected administrations at Maitland Place have also turned a blind eye from such repetitive misconduct incidents by Gunathillaka and others, largely due to vote bank politics.
Well reputed Professor Arjuna De Silva led management committee, however, has sent a strong message that anyone who does not fall in line will be dealt with strongly.
“Management Committee of the SLC wishes to stress that the discipline of the National players will be strictly monitored, and stern action will be taken against any individual in the event of proven misconduct on disciplinary grounds.” Sri Lanka Cricket had earlier said in a statement.
The appointment of Keerthinanda also gives a hope that at least this time, Gunathillaka will be taught a lesson for bringing shame to Sri Lanka cricket. One of the most knowledgeable and experienced lawyer in the field of Sports Law, Keerthinanda was instrumental in bringing National Sports Policy, Convention Against Doping in Sports and Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports. Former legal advisor to ministry of Sports, he brings legal and Sports Laws expertise on the board!
