Sri Lanka's fast bowler Nuwan Thushara has reached out to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) with an apology, showing his readiness to drop the legal action he initiated after the board denied him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to play in overseas franchise leagues, including the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL). 

In an email sent to SLC's Chief Executive Officer Ashley de Silva, and copied to President Shammi Silva and another senior official, Thushara clarified that he never intended to drag the board into court or put any pressure on them.

“My sole intention throughout this process has been to seek fairness and justice, as I genuinely feel that I have been treated unfairly in this matter,” Thushara wrote. 

“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,” he added.

The right-arm pacer had previously filed a petition in the Colombo District Court, asking for an order that would compel SLC to issue him an NOC for participation in overseas leagues, including the IPL. 

Also Read| "play the ball and not the bowler" 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi dominates top bowlers

SLC had turned down his request, citing that he hadn't met the newly established fitness standards, which led him to pursue legal action. Recently, the case was brought before the Colombo District Court, where SLC indicated its plan to file objections. The hearing has now been postponed until April 23. 

By apologizing to Sri Lanka Cricket and expressing his willingness to withdraw the legal proceedings regarding the denied NOC, Nuwan Thushara has taken a step towards reconciliation. Although the initial conflict arose from unmet fitness criteria, his more conciliatory approach could pave the way for a resolution.

With the case adjourned until April 23, both sides now have a chance to resolve their differences amicably and move on without further disputes.