Sri Lankan Bowler Nuwan Thushara Takes Legal Action Against SLC Over IPL Participation
Nuwan Thushara's Legal Challenge
New Delhi: Fast bowler Nuwan Thushara from Sri Lanka has approached the Colombo District Court for legal recourse after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) refused to issue him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) necessary for his participation in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL).
The court heard the case on Thursday and has set the next hearing for April 9. In his legal filing, Thushara has named several SLC officials, including president Shammi Silva, secretary Bandula Dissanayake, treasurer Sujeewa Godaliyadda, and CEO Ashley de Silva, as respondents.
Thushara had previously signed a contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru for the upcoming IPL season, having played in the last two seasons with the board's consent. However, SLC reportedly withheld the NOC this time, citing concerns over his fitness levels, as reported by News Wire Sri Lanka.
Challenging this decision, Thushara pointed out that his central contract with SLC is set to expire on March 31, 2026, and he has already indicated his intention not to renew it. He further argued that he has been excluded from national selection considerations, rendering the board's fitness-related objections inconsistent and unfair.
In his petition, Thushara asserted that his fitness remains comparable to previous years when he was granted NOCs for international leagues, including the IPL. He contended that the current refusal to issue the clearance is unfounded, especially since there has been no change in his physical condition.
The petition also emphasized the professional and financial repercussions of SLC's decision, warning that not obtaining the NOC could lead to his replacement by the franchise, significant financial losses, and potential hindrances to his career in global T20 tournaments.
Thushara is seeking judicial relief that would affirm his right to receive the NOC, along with both interim and permanent orders compelling SLC to allow him to participate in the IPL and other international leagues. The case will be revisited on April 9 as the conflict between the player and the national board continues.