SLC Clears Eshan Malinga for IPL, Others Await NOC

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has begun issuing clearances for its players to participate in IPL 2026, but uncertainty still surrounds several key names. While young pacer Eshan Malinga has received the green light, three others—Nuwan Thushara, Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana—are still awaiting clarity on their No Objection Certificates (NOCs) ahead of the tournament, which begins on March 28.

Malinga, a 25-year-old right-arm fast bowler, is set to link up with Sunrisers Hyderabad shortly. A franchise official confirmed that he will report to the team on March 24, arriving in Hyderabad alongside compatriot Kamindu Mendis. The 27-year-old left-handed batter has already been granted his NOC and is expected to be available for selection from the outset.

However, the situation is less straightforward for the remaining Sri Lankan contingent. Both Hasaranga, who has been signed by Lucknow Super Giants, and Pathirana, a key recruit for Kolkata Knight Riders, have yet to complete mandatory fitness assessments conducted by SLC. Their inability to attend the scheduled tests on March 23 has resulted in delays, effectively pushing back their arrival in India.

Pathirana’s case is particularly significant. The young fast bowler, who commands a hefty price tag of INR 18 crore, is already expected to miss a portion of the season due to injury concerns. Despite this, Kolkata Knight Riders appear willing to be patient, preferring to wait for his full recovery rather than rushing him back or seeking a replacement. The franchise’s long-term investment in Pathirana suggests they view him as a crucial component of their bowling attack.

For Hasaranga, the lack of communication has created additional uncertainty. Lucknow Super Giants, who secured his services for INR 2 crore, are yet to receive any official update regarding his availability. Given his all-round capabilities, particularly his effectiveness in T20 cricket, his absence—even if temporary—could impact the team’s balance.

Meanwhile, the status of Nuwan Thushara remains unclear. The 31-year-old pacer, who is part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, is also awaiting clearance. SLC has indicated that his eligibility will depend on the outcome of a physical performance test. As of March 23, there has been no confirmation on whether he has passed the assessment or when a decision will be made.

While these uncertainties persist, several other Sri Lankan players have already been cleared to participate in IPL 2026. Among them are Dushmantha Chameera and Pathum Nissanka, both of whom are part of Delhi Capitals. Additionally, Dasun Shanaka, a recent addition to Rajasthan Royals, has also received his NOC. Their timely clearance ensures that they will be available for their respective teams from the beginning of the tournament.

The staggered approvals highlight SLC’s cautious approach, particularly with regard to player fitness and workload management. With a busy international calendar ahead, the board appears keen to ensure that its players are in optimal condition before granting permission to participate in franchise leagues.

Sunrisers Hyderabad Preparations

Amid these developments, Sunrisers Hyderabad are finalizing their preparations for the new season. Their regular captain, Pat Cummins, is expected to arrive in India on March 24. He will join the rest of the squad in Bengaluru, where the team is set to begin its campaign.

Sunrisers Hyderabad will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the opening match of IPL 2026 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28. As defending champions, RCB will enter the contest with high expectations, making it a high-profile start to the season.

In Cummins’ absence during the initial phase, Ishan Kishan has been named stand-in captain. The wicketkeeper-batter is set to represent the franchise at the pre-tournament captains’ meeting in Mumbai on March 25.

Captains’ Meeting and Tournament Build-Up

The captains’ meeting is a key event in the IPL calendar, bringing together leaders from all ten franchises. Scheduled as a six-hour engagement, it will include media interactions, promotional activities, and discussions with officials from the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

The event will begin with a photo session at noon, followed by a series of engagements with broadcasters and sponsors. The day will conclude with a formal meeting between team captains and BCCI officials, where operational guidelines and tournament protocols will be discussed.

For players like Ishan Kishan, the meeting represents an opportunity to step into a leadership role on a larger stage, even if temporarily. It also underscores the importance of adaptability within IPL squads, where roles can shift quickly due to injuries or availability issues.

Balancing Fitness and Franchise Commitments

The ongoing situation with Sri Lankan players highlights a broader challenge faced by international cricketers—balancing national commitments with franchise opportunities. Boards like SLC must weigh the commercial and developmental benefits of IPL participation against the risks associated with player fatigue and injury.

Fitness tests and NOC requirements are part of this balancing act. While they can delay player participation, they are designed to safeguard long-term performance and availability. For franchises, however, such delays can disrupt planning and strategy, particularly when key players are involved.

As IPL 2026 approaches, teams will be closely monitoring updates from SLC and other cricket boards. The availability of players like Hasaranga and Pathirana could significantly influence team combinations and early-season results.

Looking Ahead

With just days to go before the tournament begins, the focus remains on finalizing squads and ensuring that all players are ready for action. While some uncertainties persist, the overall picture is gradually becoming clearer.

Eshan Malinga’s clearance is a positive step, and his inclusion adds depth to Sunrisers Hyderabad’s bowling attack. At the same time, the delayed arrivals of other Sri Lankan players serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in organizing a global tournament like the IPL.

As franchises adapt to these challenges, fans can look forward to another exciting season of cricket—one that promises both high-quality competition and compelling storylines from the very start.