Chameera, Nissanka and Kamindu cleared; Hasaranga, Pathirana and Malinga yet to complete mandatory fitness assessment

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Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has made fitness clearance mandatory for players seeking No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) to participate in IPL 2026, signaling a strong push towards improving player performance and injury management.

The decision directly impacts several Sri Lankan stars set to feature in the Indian Premier League. Players like Wanindu Hasaranga (Lucknow Super Giants), Nuwan Thushara (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Matheesha Pathirana (Kolkata Knight Riders), and Eshan Malinga (Sunrisers Hyderabad) are expected to join their franchises soon, but must first meet SLC’s fitness benchmarks.

Dushmantha Chameera and Pathum Nissanka of Delhi Capitals, along with Kamindu Mendis of Sunrisers Hyderabad, have already passed the required physical performance tests and received clearance to play in IPL 2026.

However, uncertainty remains around Thushara, whose NOC approval will depend on his test results. Meanwhile, Hasaranga, Pathirana, and Malinga are yet to undergo the fitness tests as they continue rehabilitation from injuries sustained around the T20 World Cup period. Pathirana is likely to miss the initial phase of the IPL and is expected to return only by mid-April.

The move is part of a broader strategy led by Sri Lanka’s new selection committee under Pramodya Wickramasinghe, along with guidance from the Sports Ministry. With no immediate international fixtures scheduled until late May, SLC has utilized this window to implement an eight-week specialized training program aimed at boosting players’ physical standards.

The fitness evaluation reportedly includes multiple assessments, with a 2km sprint being a key component. According to SLC, only players who meet the required fitness criteria will be eligible not just for IPL participation, but also for domestic tournaments.

This stricter fitness policy highlights Sri Lanka Cricket’s renewed commitment to maintaining high performance standards, ensuring players are fully prepared for both franchise leagues and upcoming international assignments.

IPL 2026 is scheduled to kick off on March 28, making these fitness tests a crucial step for Sri Lankan players aiming to participate in the tournament.