Cricket Australia (CA) has imposed a second ban on former Sri Lanka Test player Dulip Samaraweera following allegations of inappropriate behaviour toward another player during his time as a coach. This latest accusation comes on top of his existing 20-year suspension for misconduct involving a female player.
The new allegation, stemming from Samaraweera’s period as a private coach while working for Cricket Victoria, has led to a 10-year ban for breaching cricket’s code of conduct. Although he denied the claim, he chose not to engage in the investigation process. This ban will run concurrently with his initial suspension, barring him from any coaching role in Australian cricket until 2044, at which point he will be 72 years old.
It is understood that neither of the complainants has pursued criminal charges at this stage.
A Tarnished Legacy
Samaraweera, who represented Sri Lanka in seven Test matches between 1993 and 1995, transitioned to coaching after his playing career. He spent nearly 16 years involved in Cricket Victoria’s women’s programs and served as a longtime assistant coach for the Melbourne Stars in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). He even acted as Victoria’s interim head coach last summer and was expected to take the role permanently. However, in May, he resigned after Cricket Victoria’s conflict of interest policy prevented him from hiring his brother, Thilan, onto the coaching staff.
Cricket Victoria’s chief executive, Nick Cummins, had previously condemned Samaraweera’s behaviour as "deeply unacceptable" and a "betrayal of the values" upheld by the organisation. Following CA’s findings in September, Cummins praised the courage of the victim who came forward during the initial investigation. He emphasised that the safety and well-being of all individuals within the organisation remain a top priority and reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy toward inappropriate conduct.
"The bravery demonstrated by the victim is commendable, and Cricket Victoria will continue to provide her with the necessary support to achieve her goals," Cummins said.
A Career Overshadowed by Controversy
The Colombo-born cricketer’s coaching career, which began with promise, is now marred by controversy. Having played a significant role in the inaugural season of the WBBL in 2015 and held prominent coaching positions, his professional trajectory has been overshadowed by misconduct allegations and the resulting sanctions.
Samaraweera’s bans, spanning decades, mark a firm stance by Cricket Australia and Cricket Victoria in prioritising accountability and fostering a safe environment for all involved in the sport.