Sri Lankan cricketer Ashen Bandara was arrested on Saturday following allegations of assaulting his neighbor due to a parking dispute. He has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court on March 12.
According to Sri Lankan police, the incident occurred on Saturday evening in Kolamunna, Piliyandala, where Bandara lives. An argument arose when a parked vehicle reportedly blocked the road, leading to Bandara allegedly entering his neighbor’s residence and assaulting him.
Sri Lankan police stated that a neighbor complained about Bandara causing trouble and trespassing. The verbal argument escalated into a physical altercation. Bandara was arrested on suspicion of assault on Saturday night but was granted bail the same day.
When Sri Lanka Cricket CEO Ashley de Silva was contacted for comments, he mentioned that they require more details about the incident before deciding on any action. De Silva added that while Bandara currently doesn’t have a central contract, he is contracted with Police SC in Sri Lanka’s National Super League, potentially making him accountable for actions that could damage SLC’s reputation.
De Silva stated that they need to examine the contract and the incident. If Bandara is found to have brought SLC into disrepute, further action might be taken. The matter will be discussed internally, and an inquiry will be conducted if necessary.
Bandara, 26, is a middle-order batsman known for his fielding skills. He has played six ODIs and six T20Is for Sri Lanka. His last international appearance for Sri Lanka was in October 2023 during the Asian Games as part of a second-string team. His previous first XI appearance was in January 2023.
