Nuwan Thushara Faces IPL 2026 Absence After SLC Denies NOC Due to New Fitness Regulations

Key Takeaways

Nuwan Thushara denied NOC by SLC due to fitness policy.

New fitness benchmarks are mandatory for overseas league participation.

Thushara's failure to meet standards jeopardizes his IPL contract.

SLC enforces strict regulations, allowing NOCs only to fit players.

Missing IPL represents a critical setback for Thushara's career.

New Delhi, March 26 (NationPress) It has been reported that Sri Lanka's pace bowler, Nuwan Thushara, is set to miss the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) due to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) denying him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) as a result of a newly enforced stringent fitness policy. This development was highlighted in a news article released on Thursday.

With the introduction of these revised guidelines, SLC now requires players to achieve specific physical performance standards before granting permission to participate in international franchise tournaments like the IPL and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Thushara's eligibility was contingent upon successfully passing these fitness evaluations, but he reportedly failed to meet the established benchmarks.

As reported by Newswire Sri Lanka, SLC's refusal to issue the NOC could jeopardize Thushara’s contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, which is reportedly worth around INR 1.6 crore.

This setback adds to the challenges faced by Thushara, who was a key player in Sri Lanka's 2025 Asia Cup campaign but has since fallen out of favor prior to the T20 World Cup. Despite the absence of injuries among fast bowlers, his exclusion from the selection raises concerns regarding his standing within the national team.

While sources indicate that Thushara is currently fit to bowl, questions regarding his overall fitness seem to have played a crucial role in the selectors’ decision.

SLC's new policy adopts a zero-tolerance stance, issuing NOCs solely to those who fulfill the fitness requirements. Several other players such as Dushmantha Chameera, Dasun Shanaka, Pathum Nissanka, and Kamindu Mendis have achieved the necessary standards and received clearance to join the IPL.

In contrast, Kusal Janith Perera was allowed to participate in the PSL without going through the fitness evaluations, as SLC clarified that he is not currently being considered for national selection.

For Thushara, missing out on the IPL, regarded as the premier franchise T20 league, poses a significant setback for his career advancement and financial prospects.

Point of View

It is crucial to highlight the implications of the new fitness policy by SLC. While it aims to enhance player performance, it also raises questions about athletes' future in international leagues, especially for players like Thushara, whose potential contributions to the national team remain uncertain.

NationPress

20 Jun 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Nuwan Thushara denied an NOC?

Nuwan Thushara was denied an NOC by SLC due to failing to meet the newly established fitness benchmarks required for participation in overseas leagues.

What is the significance of the IPL for cricketers?

The IPL is one of the most prestigious T20 leagues globally, offering substantial financial rewards and opportunities for career advancement to participating players.

How does SLC's new fitness policy affect players?

SLC's new fitness policy requires players to achieve specific physical performance standards, impacting their eligibility for international franchise leagues.

Are other players affected by SLC's fitness policy?

Yes, several players have successfully met the fitness standards and received clearance to participate in the IPL, while others like Thushara have not.

What are the financial implications for Thushara?

Missing the IPL could result in a loss of a contract valued at approximately INR 1.6 crore, significantly affecting his financial prospects.