KCA Lifts 3-Year Ban on Former India Pacer Sreesanth Following Unconditional Apology
The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has lifted a three-year ban on former India fast bowler S. Sreesanth today, July 1, 2026, following his unconditional apology for defamatory remarks. This decision allows the 43-year-old to resume his role as co-owner of the Aries Kollam Sailors in the Kerala Cricket League, ending a dispute that stemmed from comments.
In a major development for Kerala cricket, the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, announced the lifting of a three-year ban on former Indian international cricketer S. Sreesanth. The decision, made during a special general body meeting, follows Sreesanth's submission of an unconditional apology for remarks he made against the association through visual and social media platforms. How is Ex-Australia Cricketer Moises Henriques Eligible to Play for Portugal National Cricket Team?.
The KCA had imposed the ban last year (2025), citing that Sreesanth's public statements had brought disrepute to the organisation. This disciplinary action had cast a shadow over the 43-year-old's involvement in KCA-recognised activities, including his role as co-owner of the Aries Kollam Sailors franchise in Season 3 of the Kerala Cricket League (KCL).
Apology Leads to Reinstatement
Sreesanth, born on February 6, 1983, had initially challenged the disciplinary action before the Thiruvananthapuram Munsiff Court, but his petition was dismissed. Following this, he tendered an official unconditional apology, expressing deep regret for his comments. The KCA's special general body deliberated on this apology and unanimously resolved to revoke the ban, acknowledging his expression of remorse.
While granting this relief, the KCA has issued a stern warning to Sreesanth. The association stated unequivocally that any future conduct or public statements damaging the KCA's reputation would lead to strict disciplinary measures without compromise. Sreesanth Dares Harbhajan Singh for In-Ring Fight: 'Do You Have the Guts?' Amidst Renewed 'Slapgate' Row.
Beyond the Spot-Fixing Scandal
This KCA ban was distinct from the more widely publicized life ban imposed on Sreesanth by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2013, following allegations of spot-fixing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Supreme Court of India had 'set aside' that life ban in March 2019, leading the BCCI to reduce it to a seven-year suspension which officially ended on September 13, 2020.
Following the expiry of the BCCI ban, Sreesanth made a comeback to domestic cricket, representing Kerala in tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2021. He later announced his retirement from domestic cricket on March 9, 2022. However, his involvement as a franchise co-owner in the KCL was impacted by this subsequent KCA ban. Did Harbhajan Singh Take Jibe At Sreesanth After Ex-India Pacer’s Challenge for In-Ring Fight?.
Impact on Sreesanth's KCL Role
With the KCA ban now revoked, Sreesanth is eligible to continue his administrative role as co-owner of the Aries Kollam Sailors in Season 3 of the Kerala Cricket League, eliminating previous uncertainties regarding his participation.
This decision marks a significant moment for Sreesanth, allowing him to maintain his association with cricket in Kerala and engage with the sport in a non-playing capacity after a tumultuous period marked by multiple bans and legal battles.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 01, 2026 05:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
