Sri Lanka players told to clear fitness test to get NOCs for IPL 2026

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has asked its players to pass fitness tests in order to be eligible for the no-objection certificates (NOCs) that would allow them to play in franchise leagues.

This is of immediate consequence for the IPL, where the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga (Lucknow Super Giants), Nuwan Thushara (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Matheesha Pathirana (Kolkata Knight Riders) and Eshan Malinga (Sunrisers Hyderabad) are due to arrive over the next few weeks.

Dushmantha Chameera, Pathum Nissanka (both Delhi Capitals) and Kamindu Mendis (Sunrisers) have passed the “physical performance test” and are already cleared to play in the IPL.

“Nuwan Thushara’s eligibility for a NOC to participate in the IPL will be subject to the outcome of his physical performance test,” a board release said.

“Wanindu Hasaranga, Eshan Malinga, and Matheesha Pathirana, who have requested NOCs to participate in IPL 2026, are yet to undergo the physical performance test, as they are still undergoing rehabilitation to recover from injuries sustained.”

All three of those players were injured either in the lead-up to, or during, the T20 World Cup. Pathirana is already set to miss the start of the IPL season, and is expected to be available only from mid-April.

This renewed focus on fitness is understood to be driven by the new national men’s selection committee led by Pramodya Wickramasinghe, as well as from the Sports Ministry of the Sri Lankan government.

With Sri Lanka not due to play another men’s international until the end of May at least, this period was identified as a training block during which the nationally-contracted players could raise fitness standards. The physical performance test is understood to be comprised of several tests including a 2km sprint.

“At present, SLC is conducting an eight-week specialized physical training program for all nationally contracted players,” the board release said.

“This initiative aims to enhance players’ physical performance standards in preparation for upcoming international assignments. Along with this program, players are also undergoing the mandatory physical performance tests, a routine process followed to check the fitness standards of the players.

“Only those who successfully meet the required standards of the physical performance tests will be cleared to participate in the ongoing domestic tournament and also granted an NOC to take part in IPL 2026.”

The IPL is scheduled to begin on March 28. (ESPNcricinfo)