Nuwan Thushara. Image Credits: X
In a major development, RCB still have no clear update on the availability of Nuwan Thushara. At the same time, a fresh update has emerged regarding Nuwan Thushara as the Sri Lanka Cricket Board has decided to take a big action against the pacer.
Notably, RCB started their IPL 2026 campaign on a strong note. The team won their opening match convincingly against Sunrisers Hyderabad. After that, they continued their good form and defeated CSK, securing an impressive 43-run victory at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Nuwan Thushara denied NOC
Meanwhile, there has been ongoing uncertainty around Thushara’s participation. Earlier reports suggested that he failed multiple fitness tests. As a result, Sri Lanka Cricket did not grant him the No Objection Certificate (NOC). Therefore, it was initially believed that the pacer would miss the entire IPL season.
However, the situation took a new turn when the 31-year-old decided to approach the court. He filed a case against SLC, seeking permission to play in franchise leagues. Notably, the matter was taken up by the Colombo District Court.
Nuwan Thushara takes action against Sri Lanka Cricket
In addition, Thushara requested an interim order from the court. Through this, he aimed to compel Sri Lanka Cricket to issue the NOC, which would allow him to participate in the IPL and other leagues.
In his petition, he named several top officials of the board, including President Shammi Silva, Secretary Bandula Dissanayake, Treasurer Sujeewa Godaliyadda, and CEO Ashley de Silva.
Furthermore, Thushara stated that he had already been selected by RCB for IPL 2026. He also showed that he had played in previous IPL seasons in 2024 and 2025 after receiving NOCs from the board. Even so, Sri Lanka Cricket denied the certificate this time, citing newly introduced fitness standards.
Also Read: After RCB’s Nuwan Thushara, Other Sri Lankan Cricketers Also Turn Hostile
On the other hand, Thushara argued that his contract with Sri Lanka Cricket ended on March 31, 2026. He also informed the board earlier about his decision not to renew the contract and step away from international cricket.
In addition, the 31-year-old pacer claimed that he had already been told that he would not be considered for national selection. Therefore, he believes the refusal to grant an NOC on fitness grounds is unfair.
At the same time, he warned that not receiving the NOC could lead to his replacement in the IPL, which may result in financial losses and fewer career opportunities.
Sri Lanka Cricket opposes the petition
Meanwhile, in the latest update, the Sri Lanka Cricket has informed the court that it plans to oppose the petition on April 9. Notably, the board stated that it will file formal objections against Nuwan Thushara. Following this, the court has scheduled the next hearing for April 23, as reported by NewsWire.
At the same time, RCB are currently placed third on the IPL points table. The team has collected 4 points with a strong net run rate of +2.501. Looking ahead, they are set to face Rajasthan Royals on April 10 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.
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