Fast bowler Nuwan Thushara is set to miss IPL 2026 after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) reportedly denied him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) under its newly introduced fitness policy.
As per reports, SLC has implemented stricter physical performance benchmarks, making it mandatory for players to meet specific fitness standards before being cleared to participate in overseas franchise leagues such as the IPL and the PSL. Thushara, however, is understood to have fallen short of these requirements.
The decision could cost the fast bowler his IPL contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, reportedly worth around ₹1.6 crore.
The setback adds to a challenging phase in Thushara’s career. After featuring in Sri Lanka’s 2025 Asia Cup campaign, the pacer fell out of favour ahead of the T20 World Cup and was overlooked for selection despite injuries within the fast-bowling unit.
While there are no reports of any current injury concerns, questions around his overall fitness appear to have influenced SLC’s firm stance. The board has adopted a no-compromise approach, granting NOCs only to players who meet the revised standards.
Several Sri Lankan players, including Dushmantha Chameera, Dasun Shanaka, Pathum Nissanka, and Kamindu Mendis, have cleared the benchmarks and received approval to participate in the IPL.
Meanwhile, Kusal Perera was allowed to join the PSL without undergoing the tests, with SLC clarifying that he is not currently in contention for national selection.
For Thushara, missing out on the IPL, widely regarded as the premier T20 franchise competition, represents a significant setback, both in terms of career progression and financial opportunity.