Nuwan Thushara Drags SLC to Court Demanding NOC for IPL

RCB pacer Nuwan Thushara has filed a petition in the Colombo District Court seeking a No Objection Certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket to play in IPL 2026. The Sri Lankan fast bowler claims the board is unfairly withholding the NOC on fitness grounds despite clearing the same standards in previous seasons.

Thushara Files Court Petition

The initial hearing took place on Thursday, with the next date fixed for April 9. Thushara, who has represented Sri Lanka in 30 T20 matches and picked up 36 wickets, argued that the board’s stand is unreasonable after his central contract ended on March 31.

Demand for IPL NOC

In the petition, the  RCB star stated he had informed Sri Lanka Cricket well in advance that he would not renew his contract or seek selection for national duties. He wants both an interim and permanent order allowing him to play in foreign leagues, including the IPL.

SLC Cites Fitness Standards

Sri Lanka Cricket refused the NOC citing failure to meet prescribed fitness benchmarks. Thushara countered that he had played the entire 2024 and 2025 seasons with identical fitness levels and received NOCs without issue. He has taken nine wickets in eight IPL matches so far, proving his match readiness.

Past Seasons NOC Granted

The bowler reminded the court that Mumbai Indians had bought him for ₹4.80 crore ahead of his maiden IPL season in 2024. He continued to feature in subsequent editions without fitness concerns being raised by the board at the time. Sources indicated that the same fitness parameters were accepted earlier.

Contract with Board Ends

Thushara’s central contract expired on March 31, 2026. He told the court he had already conveyed his decision not to extend it further and would stay away from international cricket. According to the petition, the board had also indicated he would not be considered for national selection.

Exit from International Cricket

The pacer made it clear that he wishes to focus on T20 franchise cricket. He argued that denying the NOC now, after he had stepped away from Sri Lanka duties, would only harm his professional opportunities without benefiting the national team.

Career Threatened by Delay

Without the NOC, RCB could be forced to replace him ahead of the 2026 season, Thushara submitted. This would directly affect his career trajectory and earnings from one of cricket’s biggest leagues. The matter has drawn attention across the cricket fraternity as it highlights growing friction between national boards and players eyeing league contracts.

Next Hearing Set for April 9

The Colombo District Court will hear the matter again on April 9. Until then, uncertainty looms over Thushara’s availability for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Cricket observers in India are watching closely, as several overseas players have faced similar NOC issues in the past.

The development comes at a time when IPL 2026 preparations are gathering pace. For Thushara, a swift resolution is critical if he is to continue his impressive showing in the world’s most popular T20 league. RCB fans, meanwhile, hope the legal route yields a favourable outcome so the Sri Lankan pacer can turn up for the franchise without further delay.