RCB Pacemaker Nuwan Thushara Takes Sri Lanka Cricket to Court Over IPL 2026 NOC
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pacer Nuwan Thushara has escalated his dispute with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) by filing a court case after being denied a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to participate in IPL 2026. The 28-year-old Sri Lankan fast bowler contends that SLC’s decision is unjustified and has sought legal intervention to secure permission to play in the lucrative Indian Premier League.
Background of the Dispute
Thushara, who was acquired by RCB for ₹1.6 crore in 2025 and contributed in the team’s IPL 2025 title run, was reportedly denied an NOC on the grounds that he failed to meet prescribed fitness standards. The pacer, however, claims his fitness remains consistent with his past career, during which he had previously received NOCs without issue.
According to reports, Thushara had informed SLC of his intention not to renew his central contract, which expired on March 31, 2026, signaling a desire to step away from international cricket. Despite this, the board did not approve his participation in IPL 2026, prompting Thushara to approach the Colombo District Court.
Legal Action and Hearing
In his plaint, Thushara has named top SLC officials as defendants, including President Shammi Silva, Secretary Bandula Dissanayake, Treasurer Sujeewa Godaliyadda, and CEO Ashley de Silva. He is seeking a court order directing SLC to grant him an NOC, emphasizing that being barred from the IPL would result in substantial financial and career-related losses.
The court has scheduled a hearing for April 9, which could be pivotal in determining whether the pacer can represent RCB this season.
RCB’s IPL 2026 Start
Meanwhile, RCB has begun their IPL 2026 campaign on a high note, defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their opening match. The franchise will be keen to have Thushara available, given the squad’s reliance on experienced pacers for both powerplay breakthroughs and middle-overs control.
Thushara’s case has also sparked broader discussions on the balance between international boards’ contractual obligations and players’ freedom to participate in global T20 leagues, particularly as IPL contracts become increasingly lucrative.
The cricketing world will be watching closely on April 9, as the Colombo District Court’s decision could set a precedent for future conflicts between players and boards regarding IPL participation.
