According to a Sunday Times report, half of Sri Lanka’s cricketers have failed the latest mandatory physical performance test. 27 out of 46 players achieved the minimum benchmark of 17 points in five assessments, raising concerns about the overall fitness standards within Sri Lanka cricket.
19 players did not meet the required professional standards set by Sri Lanka Cricket after the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The board has made it mandatory for any international player seeking a no objection certificate to participate in overseas franchise tournaments to pass these physical performance tests.
Sri Lankan fast bowler Nuwan Thushara did not get approval for Royal Challengers Bangalore.
In a blow for defending champions Royal Challengers Bangalore, Sri Lankan fast bowler Nuwan Thushara could miss the Indian Premier League 2026 season. Sri Lanka Cricket refused to grant him a no objection certificate after he failed to meet the mandatory fitness standards required for overseas tournaments.
Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed that the 31-year-old will receive his no objection certificate only if he meets the newly prescribed fitness standards.
The move shows that Sri Lanka Cricket is prioritizing player fitness and national standards over franchise commitments in the Indian Premier League 2026.
Mahesh Theekshana and others clarify Sri Lankan cricket standards
Meanwhile, many players improved their fitness to meet the Sri Lankan cricket standards. Mahesh Theekshana scored an impressive score of 22 after losing almost six kilograms before joining his franchise for the Pakistan Super League.
Many other international players have also passed the fitness test ahead of IPL 2026. Delhi Capitals (DC)’s Dushmantha Chameera and Pathum Nissanka, Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) Dasun Shanaka, and Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) Kamindu Mendis and Ishan Malinga have received their no-objection certificates.
The report added that officials believe that stricter fitness regulations are needed to improve standards and prepare players for both international and franchise cricket.
Wanindu Hasaranga awaits clearance for Lucknow Supergiants
While many players have secured their No Objection Certificates, Lucknow Super Giants spinner Wanindu Hasaranga remains in a complicated situation. He suffered a hamstring injury while representing the Sri Lankan national team during the group stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Due to the ongoing rehabilitation process, Hasaranga is still awaiting final medical clearance from the Sri Lanka Cricket medical staff. The Lucknow Super Giants management is hopeful that he will recover in time and secure his No Objection Certificate for the Indian Premier League 2026.
The IPL 2026 season has already seen a number of injuries and availability concerns. Key players like Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Lockie Ferguson will miss the start, while Sam Curran, Akash Deep and Nathan Ellis have been ruled out of the tournament.
The IPL 2026 season began with Royal Challengers Bangalore, led by Rajat Patidar, taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the opener in Bengaluru on Saturday, March 28. RCB won by six wickets to start the tournament on a positive note.
Also Read: Phil Salt takes a dig at Dinesh Karthik, alleges bias after RCB vs SRH match
