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Fitness Fails: Sri Lankan Pacer Out of IPL 2026?
26 Mar
Summary
- Nuwan Thushara may miss IPL 2026 due to failed fitness tests.
- Sri Lanka Cricket implemented new mandatory physical performance tests.
- Thushara risks losing a contract worth INR 1.6 crore if NOC is denied.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru faces a potential major blow for IPL 2026 as Nuwan Thushara is reportedly unlikely to participate. Sri Lanka Cricket has introduced stringent new physical performance tests for players seeking clearance for overseas leagues like the IPL.
Thushara reportedly failed to meet the required fitness benchmarks, preventing the board from issuing his No Objection Certificate (NOC). This development could mean missing the entire IPL 2026 season unless he meets the criteria. The franchise has not received official confirmation of his withdrawal.
If the NOC is denied, Thushara could forfeit his IPL contract, estimated to be around INR 1.6 crore. This adds to RCB's pre-season concerns, following an earlier setback with bowler Yash Dayal. Several other Sri Lankan cricketers, including Dushmantha Chameera and Pathum Nissanka, have passed the new fitness assessments and secured clearance.
