Sri Lankan cricket terminates contract of Dambulla Thunders after legal issues come to light

The Sri Lankan Cricket Board has announced that the Lankan Premier League has banished Dambulla Thunders. The move comes after charges of corruption came to light involving the team owner, Tamim Rahman, who was arrested recently. 

According to reports, Tamim Rahman was accosted and taken into custody as he was set to fly. More details are awaited regarding the news but as per reports, the case is about Tamim Rahman’s arrest, which happened 5 years ago for a case regarding corruption charges levied on him. 

Lanka Premier League Auctions were held just a few days ago, with the Dambulla Thunders being part of the process. They had successfully bid for the services of a few new players before this latest turn of events took place. 

Sri Lankan Cricket Board releases statement 

After the news of the termination of Dambulla Thunders came to light, the Sri Lankan Cricket Board sprang into action. The board released a statement which read, “While the specifics of the charges against Mr. Rahman remain unclear, the integrity and smooth functioning of the Lanka Premier League are of the utmost importance.”  

The statement also read, “This termination aims to uphold the values and reputation of the LPL, ensuring that all participants adhere to the highest standards of conduct and sportsmanship. The LPL management is working diligently to address the consequences of this termination and to ensure minimal disruption to the upcoming season."

“We are committed to the highest standards of transparency and professionalism and will continue to support all our teams, players, and fans during this transition.” Was the statement made by Mr Anil who happens to be the chairman of a group called IPG that is entrusted with the right of the Lanka Premier League. 

Dambulla Thunders were previously called Dambulla Aura, followed by Dambulla Vikings before being called the Dambulla Giants. They had finished the Lanka Premier League 2023 as the runners-up. Sri Lankan stars like Dhananjaya De Silva, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama are part of the team. International players like Noor Ahmad, Hasan Ali, and Ben McDermott have played for the franchise.