Dulip Samaraweera, a well-known batting coach from Victoria and former Sri Lankan Test cricket player, has been barred from any position in Australian cricket for 20 years due to a major infraction of the code of conduct.
The way he behaved with a woman was deemed “utterly reprehensible”. Having lived in Melbourne for almost 20 years, Samaraweera rose to a top position in local cricket before being named Victoria’s head coach for the women’s team earlier this year. But in May, he resigned after just two weeks and is no longer with Cricket Victoria.
The matter was brought before the sport’s conduct commission after Cricket Australia’s integrity department conducted an investigation. There, the 52-year-old was found guilty of violating the “catch-all” clause of the code of conduct. Actions that violate the spirit of the game and defame cricket are covered under this clause, as they are grave offenses that could jeopardize the sport’s integrity.
Cummins said; “It is our view that the conduct was utterly reprehensible and a betrayal of everything we stand for at Cricket Victoria”, He added that the woman with whom Samaraweera behaved in an “utterly reprehensible”.manner will “continue to receive our ongoing support to allow her to achieve her goals on and off the field”.
“We will not tolerate any behaviour which compromises that position or our people, and will always support our culture of speaking up,” said Cummins.
Cricket Australia is dedicated to making sure that all players and staff work in a respectful and safe workplace, with the well-being of those who have been abused as a high priority. To preserve these norms, the organization’s code of conduct is strictly adhered to.
Samaraweera showed his skill and commitment to the game by serving as the assistant coach for the Australian Under-19 Women’s team during the 2022-2023 season. He has a track record of success working with some of the best female players in Australia.