Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrate Nuwan Thushara (Photo: Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images) Sri Lankan fast bowler Nuwan Thushara has approached the Colombo District Court seeking legal intervention to allow him to play in the 2026 Indian Premier League. Thesehara filed a case against Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and asked that the board be ordered to issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for his participation.The matter was heard in court today and is scheduled for a full hearing on April 9. In his petition, Thesehara named SLC president Shammi Silva, secretary Bandula Dissanayake, treasurer Sujeew Godaliyad and managing director Ashley de Silva as defendants.
Watch
RCB’s big changes ahead of IPL: New rules, tribute and squad update Thesehara, who was selected by Royal Challengers for IPL 2026, pointed out that he had previously played in the 2024 and 2025 editions after receiving NOC from SLC. However, the board refused to grant NOC 2026 citing that he did not meet the prescribed fitness standards.Temper claims that his contract with SLC expired on 31 March 2026 and that he had already informed the board of his decision not to renew it and to retire from international cricket. He claimed that he was also informed that he would not be selected for national duty, so the refusal to issue the NOC on grounds of eligibility was unreasonable.Thushara further stated that his current level of fitness is in line with the level maintained throughout his career and that similar standards have not prevented the SLC from issuing NOCs in the past. He warned that if he does not get the NOC, he will be forced to be replaced by his IPL franchise, leading to loss of income and career opportunities.Through the court, Thushara is seeking a declaration confirming his NOC claim, along with interim and permanent orders directing the SLC to issue a certificate to ensure his eligibility for the IPL and other overseas leagues.The court set the next hearing for April 9.
