Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka has hailed the Indian Premier League (IPL) as a coveted platform for players from his country, stressing the importance of making the most of every opportunity at the elite level. Representing Delhi Capitals, Nissanka noted that while injuries have sidelined some Sri Lankan players this season, those selected must step up and perform.

Speaking after a closely contested match, Nissanka highlighted the pride associated with competing in the IPL. He emphasized that every Sri Lankan cricketer aspires to play in the tournament and that seizing such opportunities is crucial for both personal and national progress.

Nissanka played a key role in Delhi’s chase, scoring a brisk 41 off 24 deliveries, including six boundaries and a six. Earlier, Gujarat Titans posted a formidable 210 for 4 after being sent in to bat. Their innings was powered by captain Shubman Gill (70 off 45), Washington Sundar (55 off 32), and Jos Buttler (52 off 27).

In response, Delhi Capitals got off to a strong start with Nissanka and KL Rahul putting together a 76-run opening stand in just eight overs. Despite the solid foundation, Delhi fell agonizingly short, losing the match by a single run.

Reflecting on the partnership, Nissanka credited Rahul’s experience and guidance, particularly in navigating challenging conditions. He explained that their strategy was to capitalize on the powerplay and build early momentum, adding that self-belief remains central to his approach at the crease.

Following the narrow defeat, Delhi Capitals sit fourth on the IPL points table with two wins from three matches, while Gujarat Titans occupy sixth place with one victory in as many games.

Sri Lanka Cricket has notified the Colombo District Court of its intention to challenge a petition filed by fast bowler Nuwan Thushara, who is seeking clearance to compete in overseas franchise tournaments, including the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL).

During recent court proceedings, the governing body stated that formal objections to the application will be submitted. The court has scheduled the matter to be taken up again on April 23, allowing Sri Lanka Cricket time to present its response.

Thushara’s petition requests an interim order compelling the board to grant him a No Objection Certificate (NOC), a requirement for players մասնակցating in foreign leagues. He argues that the certificate is essential for him to honor commitments with international franchises.

In his filing, Thushara has named several top officials of Sri Lanka Cricket as respondents, citing their roles in the decision-making process. He claims he was selected by an IPL franchise for the 2026 season, having previously taken part in earlier editions of the tournament with the board’s approval.

However, Sri Lanka Cricket has declined to issue the NOC this year, reportedly citing newly introduced fitness requirements. Thushara disputes this reasoning, noting that his contract with the board ended in March 2026 and that he has already stepped away from international cricket.

He further maintains that denying the NOC could result in financial losses and missed professional opportunities, as franchises may be forced to replace him.

A brilliant century from Lasith Croospulle guided Sri Lanka ‘A’ to a convincing 44-run victory over New Zealand ‘A’ in the second unofficial ODI played in Hambantota.

After being put in to bat, Sri Lanka ‘A’ posted a formidable 368/9 in their allotted 50 overs. Croospulle led the charge with a brilliant 103 off 76 balls, striking 13 fours and six sixes in an aggressive display. He was well supported by Sonal Dinusha, who hammered 93 off 77 deliveries, and captain Sahan Arachchige, who contributed a solid 74. The top order maintained a high scoring rate throughout, consistently putting pressure on the visiting bowlers. Despite a few wickets falling at regular intervals, the hosts kept the momentum intact to reach an imposing total.

In response, New Zealand ‘A’ faced a revised target of 203 in 28 overs but managed only 158/3. Curtis Heaphy top-scored with an unbeaten 53, while Dale Phillips added 34. However, the required run rate proved too steep as Sri Lanka ‘A’ bowlers maintained control. Dilshan Madushanka struck early, and Milan Rathnayaka and Ravindu Fernando chipped in with key wickets to restrict the chase.