December 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan cricketer Niroshan Dickwella’s suspension from all forms of cricket has been significantly reduced from three years to just three months.
The new ruling, which makes him eligible to return to competitive cricket from December 11, 2024, follows a successful appeal process.
In a statement following the appeal, the appeal panel explained that medical evidence clearly indicated that Dickwella had ingested a substance of abuse outside of competition and that it was unrelated to enhancing his sports performance.
Based on this, the panel concluded that the initial three-year suspension imposed by the disciplinary committee should be substantially shortened to a three-month ban, effective from August 13, 2024.
The panel also emphasized that the decision strikes a balance between upholding anti-doping principles and ensuring fairness for the player. Their ruling was designed to maintain the integrity of the sport while considering Dickwella’s right to fair treatment.
The appeal panel was composed of Retired Judge Upali Samaraweera, Professor Asela Mendis, and Attorney-at-Law Gimhana Jagodaarachchi.
Niroshan Dickwella’s legal representation included Attorney-at-Law Suminda Perera and Senior Attorney-at-Law Ranil Prematilake.
Dickwella was initially suspended by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on August 16, 2024, after an anti-doping violation was detected during the Lanka Premier League (LPL).
The breach came to light following a routine doping test conducted by the Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency, leading to his suspension from all forms of cricket, which raised concerns among fans and officials alike.
