Fast bowler Nuwan Thushara has reportedly informed Sri Lanka Cricket that he should not be considered for a national contract, in a move that has raised eyebrows across the cricketing fraternity.
The development comes after the paceman failed to clear the mandatory fitness test required to link up with his IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru for the ongoing Indian Premier League season. With the tournament already underway, the setback has left Thushara in an uncomfortable position, both at international and franchise level.
Sources indicate that the fitness failure played a key role in his decision, as concerns grow over player conditioning and readiness ahead of a packed international calendar. Sri Lanka Cricket has been firm in its stance on fitness benchmarks, insisting that all centrally contracted players must meet required standards without exception.
Thushara, known for his slingy action and effectiveness in T20 cricket, had been expected to play a key role in Sri Lanka’s white-ball plans. However, this latest development now casts uncertainty over his immediate future. His absence from both the national contract list and the IPL setup raises questions about his recovery timeline and readiness to return to competitive cricket.
🏏 A setback — but not the end of the road.
