Sri Lanka Cricket has reportedly instructed national players currently participating in the ILT20 tournament in Dubai to return to the country by Dec. 20, despite having earlier granted permission for them

to compete in the league until early January.

The recall was communicated to the players via email, according to sources, though Sri Lanka Cricket has not officially stated the reason for the directive. Reports indicate the move is linked to preparations for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and Sri Lanka’s immediate international commitments.

Sri Lanka Cricket had previously issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) allowing players to take part in the ILT20 until Jan. 2. The sudden recall has raised questions over whether those approvals have been withdrawn or revised.

Several Sri Lankan players are currently featuring in the ILT20, including Pathum Nissanka, Maheesh Theekshana, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Nuwan Thushara and Matheesha Pathirana. Nissanka has been among the standout performers in the tournament, while Pathirana and Kamindu have each won Player of the Match awards during the competition.

In addition, several players who were expected to join the ILT20 later in the tournament — including Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera — will also be unavailable following the recall, according to reports.

Sri Lanka are scheduled to face Pakistan in a T20 international on Jan. 7 in Dambulla, with preparations for the series believed to be a key factor behind the decision to call players back early.

The move contrasts with Pakistan’s reported approach to player availability. According to foreign media reports, Pakistan Cricket Board has granted permission for several senior players, including Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi, to continue participating in Australia’s Big Bash League instead of returning early for the Sri Lanka tour.

Sri Lanka Cricket has yet to issue an official statement clarifying the status of the ILT20 NOCs or the exact scope of the recall.