Sri Lankan fast bowler Nuwan Thushara is likely to miss the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) reportedly refused to grant him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) following the introduction of a strict new fitness policy.
This development is set to come as a significant setback for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who are likely to be without the services of their overseas pacer in the upcoming season. According to reports, the Sri Lankan board is now only allowing players to participate in overseas franchise leagues if they meet newly introduced physical performance standards, part of a wider effort to tighten fitness standards in the national pool.
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Although Thomhara is currently not dealing with any injury concerns and remains available to bowl, his fitness is not up to the level required by the SLC, according to latest estimates. As a result, his NOC participation in IPL 2026 was denied, effectively ruling him out of the tournament unless there is a late reversal of the decision.
Under the revised regulations, the SLC has made it mandatory for players to undergo these fitness tests before being granted permission to feature in overseas competitions, including the IPL and the Pakistan Super League. Thushara’s participation was conditional on successfully meeting these criteria, but reports suggest that he did not meet the required criteria.
According to Newswire Sri Lanka, the SLC’s decision could have financial implications for the pacer and could cost him his RCB contract, which is reportedly valued at around Rs 1.6 million. More importantly, the setback adds to a challenging period in Thushara’s international career.
The fast bowler featured prominently during Sri Lanka’s 2025 Asia Cup campaign where he proved to be a key option in the pace attack. However, he subsequently fell out of favor ahead of the T20 World Cup despite the national team struggling with many injuries among the fast bowlers.
However, thanks to the board’s uncompromising stance, several other Sri Lankan players have successfully met the required standards and secured NOCs for IPL 2026. Dushmantha Chameera, Dasun Shanaka, Pathum Nissanka and Kamindu Mendis are among those who have met the criteria and been cleared to participate.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
27 March 2026 09:25 IST
