Cricket Australia Bans Dulip Samaraweera for Alleged Misconduct
Cricket Australia has taken strict action against former Sri Lanka Test player Dulip Samaraweera for allegations of inappropriate behavior towards players while coaching. This ban adds to Samaraweera’s existing suspension from any involvement in Australian cricket for 20 years due to inappropriate conduct towards a female player. The recent accusation of misconduct has led to a further ban.
Allegations and Investigation
- Samaraweera has been accused of inappropriate behavior towards a second player during his time as a private coach while working for Cricket Victoria.
- Despite denying the claim, Samaraweera did not participate in the investigation, resulting in a 10-year ban for breaching the sport’s code of conduct.
- The ban will run concurrently with his initial 20-year suspension, extending his ban from coaching roles until 2044.
Repercussions and Response
- Samaraweera, a seven-time Test representative and former assistant coach at WBBL’s Melbourne Stars, has resigned from his coaching position at Cricket Victoria after the allegations surfaced.
- Cricket Victoria chief executive Nick Cummins condemned Samaraweera’s conduct as "utterly reprehensible" and emphasized the organization’s commitment to a safe and supportive environment.
- While no criminal charges have been pursued by the complainants, the victims have received ongoing support from Cricket Victoria.
Samaraweera’s Background and Career
- Born in Colombo, Samaraweera represented Sri Lanka in seven Tests between 1993 and 1995 before transitioning into coaching.
- He played a significant coaching role with the Melbourne Stars in the WBBL and briefly served as Victoria’s interim head coach.
- Samaraweera’s resignation in May was influenced by Cricket Victoria’s conflict of interest policy, which prevented him from hiring his brother to the coaching staff.
Conclusion
The ban imposed on Dulip Samaraweera by Cricket Australia highlights the zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct and inappropriate behavior in the sport. The organization remains committed to upholding a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
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FAQ
What led to Dulip Samaraweera’s ban from Cricket Australia?
Samaraweera faced allegations of inappropriate behavior towards players while coaching, resulting in a 10-year ban in addition to his existing 20-year suspension.
How has Cricket Victoria responded to the allegations against Samaraweera?
Cricket Victoria’s chief executive condemned Samaraweera’s conduct and reiterated the organization’s commitment to a safe and supportive environment for all participants.