Sri Lanka national cricket team fast bowler Nuwan Thushara has sought legal intervention after he wasn't given a No Objection Certificate (NOC) by Sri Lanka Cricket (SC) to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Thushara filed a petition in the Colombo District Court requesting a directive for the board to grant him permission to play for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The court has admitted the case, according to reports.
Sri Lanka Cricket had earlier stated that NOCs would be issued only after players clear mandatory fitness tests, particularly those returning from injuries. Thushara had missed the T20 World Cup due to injury but has since completed rehabilitation and returned to training.
His absence has affected Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s pace options, especially with Josh Hazlewood unavailable. The franchise included New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy as a replacement, who impressed with a three-wicket haul in the season opener.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Cricket is also yet to clear fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana for IPL participation, citing ongoing rehabilitation. His availability is expected only after mid-April, subject to fitness clearance.
