Royal Challengers Bengaluru pacer Nuwan Thushara has taken Sri Lanka Cricket to court after not receiving a No Objection Certificate for IPL 2026. The issue has created uncertainty around his participation in the ongoing tournament.
Thushara, who was picked by Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has filed the case in Colombo. The hearing is scheduled for April 9. He has requested the court to direct Sri Lanka Cricket to grant him permission to play in the IPL.
Sri Lanka Cricket recently introduced new fitness rules for players participating in overseas T20 leagues. CEO Ashley de Silva stated that players must secure at least 17 out of 29 points in the fitness assessment.
According to reports, Thushara failed to meet the required fitness benchmark, leading to the rejection of his NOC. However, the player argued that his contract with Sri Lanka Cricket ended on March 31 and he chose not to renew it.
He also highlighted that he had been allowed to participate in previous IPL seasons. Thushara believes that denying him permission now could affect his place in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad and result in financial losses.
With IPL 2026 already underway, Royal Challengers Bengaluru may be forced to consider a replacement if the matter is not resolved quickly. The situation remains uncertain ahead of the next hearing.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have started IPL 2026 on a positive note. Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, they won their opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad and currently hold the second position on the points table.
They are set to face Chennai Super Kings in their next match on April 5. The team will be hoping for clarity on Thushara’s availability before the tournament progresses further.
