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Former Test player banned from Australian cricket for 20 years

Former Test player banned from Australian cricket for 20 years

Former Sri Lankan Test cricketer Dulip Samaraweera has been banned from holding any positions in Australian cricket for 20 years after an integrity investigation found he had a “coercive” relationship with a female player.

Three senior cricket sources, who would not be named because of the sensitive nature of the case, said the charges related to a long-term “coercive” relationship with a female player while he held numerous coaching roles.

Dulip Samaraweera.Credit: Getty Images

“The victim in this case has demonstrated incredible strength of character and courage in speaking up. She will continue to receive our ongoing support to allow her to achieve her goals on and off the field,” Cricket Victoria chief executive Nick Cummins said.

There is no criminal investigation.

“The conduct commission found that Samaraweera engaged in inappropriate behaviour that breached section 2.23 of CA’s code of conduct,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.

“The allegations of inappropriate conduct took place while Samaraweera was employed by Cricket Victoria.

“The CA integrity department investigates complaints brought to it under integrity codes and policies which also apply to state and territory associations. The conduct commission hears matters referred to it by CA integrity.

“CA and [Cricket Victoria] are committed to providing a safe environment for all players and employees and the welfare of those subjected to mistreatment is paramount. We strongly encourage the reporting of inappropriate behaviours, which can be made directly to the CA integrity unit or via the core integrity hotline.”

Samaraweera was contacted for comment.