Sri Lankan cricketer Ashen Bandara was arrested on March 8 following an alleged assault on his neighbour over a dispute related to parking. However, he was later released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court on March 12 (Wednesday).

According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, the Sri Lankan police stated that the incident occurred in the evening in Kolamunna, Piliyandala. The altercation began when Bandara got into a heated argument over a parked vehicle obstructing the road. The situation escalated when the cricketer allegedly entered his neighbor’s house and physically assaulted him.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident or any potential disciplinary action. SLC CEO Ashley de Silva clarified that Bandara is not a centrally contracted player but holds a contract with Police SC in the National Super League.

"We need to review his contract and the details of the incident. If it is determined that he has brought SLC into disrepute, further action may be taken," de Silva said.

He added, "We will discuss the matter internally, and if necessary, conduct an inquiry,"

Who is Ashen Bandana?

Bandara has played six ODIs and as many T20Is for Sri Lanka. He has scored 141 runs from five innings at an average of 35.25 including two half-centuries. In T20Is, he has scored 97 runs from four innings at an average of 24.25.

The 26-year-old's last appearance in international cricket was in October 2023. He played in the quarterfinal of Asian Games 2023 and scored 13 runs in a losing cause as Afghanistan clinched an eight-run win. In ODIs, his last appearance was against India. He sustained an injury while fielding and did not bat. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 73 as India won by a record-breaking margin of 317 runs.

His last appearance in competitive cricket was for Police SC on February 14. In the Major League Tournament clash against Ace Capital, he scored 51 runs in a winning cause.