Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) today (17) lifted a ban imposed on Danushka Gunathilaka following a sexual assault charge in Australia, paving the way for the left-handed batter’s return to the national team.

“…the Independent Inquiry Committee appointed by SLC, which was tasked with investigating into the impact of the criminal allegations against Mr. Danushka Gunathilaka in Australia, has recommended a full lifting of the ban imposed on him in November 2022 following Mr. Gunathilaka’s acquittal from all charges filed in the District Court of New South Wales and his return to Sri Lanka on 3rd October 2023,” a release said.

“He would now be able to return to national duty,” the release added.

In November 2022, the cricketer was charged for alleged sexual assault in Australia during his visit as a member of the Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup team. He was arrested after a woman accused him of sexual assault.

The 32-year-old cricketer was charged on four counts of rape, which were later dropped by the prosecution before trial and was also under travel restrictions for 11 months in Australia.