No fitness test, no IPL: Sri Lanka lays down rule for players

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has made fitness clearance compulsory for players before competing in franchise leagues, a rule that comes into effect right before the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) where several Sri Lankans are set to compete.

In a directive, SLC said players must pass a “mandatory Physical Performance Test” before being granted NOCs, particularly targeting those returning from injury.

SLC stressed that “only players who meet the required fitness standards will be issued NOCs,” underlining a stricter approach to player readiness and workload management.

Among those awaiting clearance are of Wanindu Hasaranga (Lucknow Super Giants), Nuwan Thushara (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Matheesha Pathirana (Kolkata Knight Riders) and Eshan Malinga (Sunrisers Hyderabad).

Meanwhile, Dushmantha Chameera, Pathum Nissanka (both Delhi Capitals) and Kamindu Mendis (Sunrisers) have already cleared the assessments and are free to join their IPL franchises.

The board said the move is aimed at ensuring players are “fully fit and prepared for competitive cricket” after a period disrupted by injuries and limited game time.

Franchises are now awaiting final confirmation on several players, with availability hinging on the outcome of these tests in the coming days.

The decision reflects SLC’s renewed emphasis on long-term player fitness, a movement spearheaded by the national selection committee headed by Pramodya Wickramasinghe.