Sri Lanka Cricketer Niroshan Dickwella Suspended After Failing Anti-Doping Test

Niroshan Dickwella, the wicketkeeper-batter for Sri Lanka, has been banned again by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) after failing an anti-doping test during the Lanka Premier League 2024. The duration of this suspension has not been disclosed by the board.

The SLC announced on Friday that the suspension is effective immediately. The incident occurred during the recent LPL, where Dickwella led Galle Marvels to the finals. He accumulated 184 runs in 10 matches, averaging 18.40 with a strike rate of 153.33. In the final match, he was dismissed for 5 runs, and Jaffna Kings emerged victorious.

"The suspension is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice. The test, which was conducted by the Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency (SLADA) during the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2024, is part of SLC's ongoing commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport," read SLC's statement.

"This initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and in accordance with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) guidelines, is aimed at ensuring that cricket remains free from the influence of prohibited substances."

Dickwella has faced disciplinary actions before. He was banned along with Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka for violating COVID-19 protocols during Sri Lanka's tour of England in 2021. They were sent back home midway through the series after being found on Durham streets, breaching bio-bubble restrictions.

The left-handed batter received a one-year ban following this incident. His last appearance for Sri Lanka was in March last year. Over his career, he has played 54 Tests scoring 2757 runs at an average of 30.97, participated in 55 ODIs amassing 1604 runs at an average of 31.45, and featured in 28 T20Is scoring 480 runs.

Sri Lanka Cricket's decision underscores their dedication to upholding fair play and integrity within the sport. Dickwella’s future participation remains uncertain as he awaits further notice regarding his suspension.