”Danushka Gunathilaka 'Turned into an Animal’ During Sex”: Sydney Court Hears Allegations of "Stealthing"

September 19, 2023

In a Sydney court, startling allegations have emerged against Sri Lankan cricketer Danushka Gunathilaka, who faces one count of sexual intercourse without consent in connection with an encounter in November last year. The complainant accuses Gunathilaka of "stealthing," the act of removing a condom during intercourse without the partner's knowledge or consent.

Allegations in the Courtroom

During the ongoing trial, the court has heard harrowing testimony from the complainant and her friends. The complainant described how her encounter with Gunathilaka took a disturbing turn once they began having sex, alleging that he "turned into an animal" and became rough during the act. She also claimed that Gunathilaka had choked her three times during intercourse, which left her fearing for her life.

"Stealthing" Accusation

The Crown alleges that Gunathilaka removed the condom while having sex with the woman, an act known as "stealthing." According to the complainant, she had consented to protected sex only, making this a crucial point in the case. The complainant's friends testified that she had expressed her discomfort and fear during the encounter, and one friend recalled the complainant's account of Gunathilaka being "on top of me, pushing me down."

Friends' Testimonies

The trial also featured statements from the complainant's friends, who shared their recollections of her conversations in the days following the incident. One friend revealed that the complainant had described Gunathilaka as "really lovely" initially but claimed he became rough and aggressive during sex. The complainant's concerns deepened when she believed he had removed the condom, which she later found on the floor after they finished.

Another friend mentioned that the complainant informed her that Gunathilaka had turned "aggressive" during their ferry ride home and that he had become a different person once they entered the bedroom.

Cross-Examination and Trial Conclusion

The defence counsel cross-examined the complainant, questioning her about the feasibility of Gunathilaka removing the condom given her description of continuous sex. The complainant insisted that it would have taken only a few seconds and disagreed with the defence's assessment.

The trial is expected to conclude on Thursday, and the complainant's identity, as well as those of her friends, is protected for legal reasons.