Sri Lanka fast bowler Nuwan Thushara has issued a letter of apology to Sri Lanka Cricket and expressed his willingness to withdraw the court petition he filed seeking a No Objection Certificate to play in the 2026 Indian Premier League.
In an email addressed to SLC CEO Ashley de Silva, with copies to President Shammi Silva, Thushara said his sole intention had been “to seek fairness and justice” after feeling he was treated unfairly over the NOC refusal.
“The steps I initially considered were driven by a desire to have my concerns heard and addressed appropriately, rather than to create conflict or bring disrepute to the organization,” Thushara wrote.
The fast bowler apologised for any inconvenience caused to SLC and its officials, adding that he is willing to withdraw legal action and “seek an amicable resolution.”
SLC had denied Thushara’s NOC on the grounds that he failed to meet newly introduced fitness standards. The bowler responded by filing a petition in the Colombo District Court seeking to compel the board to issue the certificate. SLC contested the petition, with the next hearing scheduled for April 23.
The apology marks a de-escalation in a dispute that had drawn public support from the World Cricketers’ Association, which backed Thushara’s right to earn a living through franchise cricket. It remains unclear whether SLC will respond by granting the NOC or whether the April 23 court date will proceed.
