Colombo: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC has told its players that they will have to pass a fitness test to get the No-Objection Certificate (NOC) required to play in the franchise league. This announcement of SLC will have a direct impact on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, where in the next few weeks, Wanindu Hasaranga (Lucknow Super Giants), Nuwan Thushara (Royal Challengers Bangalore), Mathisha Pathirana. Players like Ishan Malinga (Kolkata Knight Riders) and Dushmantha Chameera (both Delhi Capitals) and Kamindu Mendis (Sunrisers) have already passed the “Physical Performance Test” and have already been cleared to play in the IPL.

“Nuwan Thushara’s eligibility for NOC to participate in the IPL will depend on the results of his physical performance test. Wanindu Hasaranga, Ishan Malinga and Mathisha Pathirana, who have requested NOC to participate in IPL 2026, are yet to undergo the physical performance test as they are still undergoing rehabilitation to recover from their injuries,” the board said.

All three players were injured before or during the T20 World Cup. Pathirana will miss the opening matches of the IPL season, and it is expected that he will be available from mid-April onwards. This new emphasis on fitness is believed to be an initiative of the new National Men’s Selection Committee led by Pramodaya Wickramasinghe and the Sports Ministry of the Government of Sri Lanka. Since Sri Lanka do not have to play any more men’s international matches till the end of May, this time has been chosen as a special time for training. During this time, players with national contracts can improve their fitness levels.

It is understood that this physical performance test includes many types of tests, which also includes a two kilometer run. A statement issued by the board said, “SLC is currently running a special eight-week physical training program for all nationally contracted players. The objective of this initiative is to improve the physical performance level of the players in preparation for the upcoming international matches. Along with this programme, the players are also undergoing a mandatory physical performance test. This is a regular process which is followed to check the fitness level of the players. Only those players who pass the physical Only those who successfully meet the prescribed standards of performance test will be allowed to play in the ongoing domestic tournament. They will also be given a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to participate in IPL 2026.” Indian Premier League starts from 28th March.