Sri Lanka Cricket mandates IPL-bound players to clear fitness test to secure NOCs

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has brought into force a new policy which mandates its players who wish to participate in overseas franchise leagues to clear a fitness test in order to obtain No Objection Certificates (NOCs). As a result of the latest development, the IPL 2026-bound players have to undertake the required test as soon as possible and rush to India to join their respective franchise.

As of now, Pathum Nissanka and Dushmantha Chameera (Delhi Capitals), and Kamindu Mendis (Sunrisers Hyderabad) have cleared the fitness test in concern. However, three other players - Matheesha Pathirana (Kolkata Knight Riders), Eshan Malinga (Sunrisers Hyderabad), and Wanindu Hasaranga (Lucknow Super Giants) - are yet to appear for the fitness test while Nuwan Thushara (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) is awaiting the results. Notably, the aforementioned trio were injured prior to or during the T20 World Cup 2026 and are undergoing rehabilitation.

"Nuwan Thushara's eligibility for a NOC to participate in the IPL will be subject to the outcome of his physical performance test. 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," an SLC statement read.

The board's statement shed light on the details of the fitness test and the reasoning behind conducting it. SLC revealed it is a standard procedure to evaluate players' fitness levels and improve them ahead of international fixtures.

"At present, SLC is conducting an eight-week specialized physical training program for all nationally contracted players. 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," the board added.

It is being reported that the newly appointed men's selection committee is the brain behind the policy along with the Sports Ministry.