Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has provided an important update ahead of IPL 2026, with young fast bowler Ishan Malinga cleared for the tournament, while uncertainty remains over several other key Sri Lankan players. In a positive development for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Ishan Malinga has been granted the required No Object Certificate (NOC) by the SLC and is set to join the franchise ahead of the season opener.The 25-year-old right-arm pacer is expected to arrive in Hyderabad on March 24, joining the SRH squad along with his compatriots. Kamando MendesWho had already got clearance. This comes as a boost for SRH, who are gearing up for their opening clash against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 28.
Hasringa and Pathirana are still awaiting clearance.
Although Malinga’s situation has been resolved, there is still no immediate explanation for his participation. Venindu Hasringa (Lucknow Supergiants) and Muttisha Pathirana (Kolkata Knight Riders). Both the players reportedly missed their scheduled fitness tests, which are mandatory to get the NOC from the SLC. As a result, their arrival in India is expected to be delayed.Pathirana: Signed by KKR for Rs 18 crore, he is likely to miss the early part of the season due to injury concerns, with the franchise willing to wait for his recovery rather than look for a replacement.Hasranga: Signed by SRH for Rs 2 crore, still awaiting any official communication from SLC regarding his clearance.Another fast bowler from Sri Lanka Nuvan Thushara. (RCB), remains in limbo. His NOC is subject to SLC’s physical performance test results, and there is no confirmed update yet.
Why the delay? Strict fitness policy of SLC
SLC has implemented a strict policy for IPL Participation makes it mandatory for players to pass a physical fitness test before receiving the NOC. Several players, including Hasringa and Pathirana, are undergoing rehabilitation after injuries and are yet to complete their assessments.
Players have already cleared.
Meanwhile, some Sri Lankan players have successfully cleared the fitness requirements and will feature in IPL 2026, including:Dushmantha Chimera (Delhi Capitals)Pathum Nissanka (Delhi Capitals)Kamando Mendes (SRH)Dasan Shanaka (Rajasthan Royals)
