IPL 2026: After Hazlewood, RCB suffers another setback as star pacer

sri lanka pacer Nuvanto Salad Sri Lanka Cricket will miss the upcoming Indian Premier League after being denied a no-objection certificate after the introduction of strict new fitness policies. As part of the revised guidelines, the board has made it mandatory for players to meet newly-imposed physical performance benchmarks before being allowed to play in overseas franchise leagues, including the IPL and PSL. Tushala’s participation was dependent on passing these fitness tests, but reports suggest he did not meet the required standards. According to Sri Lanka Newsline, the board’s decision to withhold the NOC could result in the pacer losing his contract with Royal Challengers Bangalore, which is believed to be worth around Rs 16 lakh. This development has brought a challenging period for Thurshara. After playing a key role in Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup campaign in 2025, he was sidelined ahead of the T20 World Cup despite the team suffering multiple injuries at pace. His absence has raised concerns about his status in the national team. While Tushara reportedly did not suffer from any injuries and was still fit to bowl, doubts over his overall fitness seemed to have influenced the selectors’ decision under the new policy framework. The board has taken a firm stand by granting NOC status only to players who meet the stipulated fitness standards. Several Sri Lankan players including Dushmantha Chameera, Dasun Shanaka, Pathum Nissanka and Kamindu Mendis have passed the benchmark test and received approval to play in the IPL. In contrast, Kusal Janith Perera does not need to undergo a fitness test to play in the PSL, with the board clarifying that he is not currently in contention for national selection. At RCB, Tushara does have a chance to break into the starting XI. with overseas leaders Josh Hazlewood Having been ruled out at the start of the season and with Yash Dayal also unavailable, the team’s options are limited. Together with New Zealand seam sealers Jacob DuffyThushara is one of the front-runners, especially considering his previous IPL experience. In 2025, he joined RCB, featured in one match and took 1 for 26 in four games. Last season, he took eight wickets for Mumbai Indians at an average of 32.12.