By Norman Kochannek
Anusha Samaranayake, a Sri Lanka Cricket fast-bowling coach, has been cleared of the fixing allegations over which he had been suspended in February. SLC had launched an inquiry about Samaranayake’s role in the fixing-related approach of more than one Sri Lanka cricketer last year. However, the ICC has since informed SLC that there is no evidence Samaranayake has breached its Anti-Corruption Code.
Despite this, Samaranayake’s role with SLC remains in hiatus, as he has more recently been found guilty of a separate disciplinary misdemeanour, SLC secretary Mohan de Silva said. This inquiry had related to Samaranayake’s entertaining of guests at SLC’s academy at Khettarama. Samaranayake’s contract with SLC runs until the end of December; although his position has not been terminated, SLC appears reluctant to having him resume his duties.
Samaranayake has contributed to the development of several Sri Lanka fast bowlers, with bowlers including Lasith Malinga and Nuwan Kulasekara citing his influence on their careers. SLC said a concrete decision on Samaranayake’s future will be made in the coming weeks.