New Delhi, March 24: The Sri Lanka Cricket Board has granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to fast bowler Isaan Malinga for IPL 2026. However, the status of Nuwan Thushara, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Matisha Pathirana remains unclear as they are still awaiting their NOCs.
An official from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) confirmed that Isaan Malinga will join the team on March 24. He will arrive in Hyderabad alongside his compatriot Kamindu Mendis, who has already received his clearance.
Hasaranga and Pathirana missed the fitness tests, raising doubts about their timely participation in IPL 2026. Pathirana, who plays for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), may miss the initial matches. However, the franchise has decided to wait for his full fitness instead of replacing him with another player.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have not yet received clear information regarding Hasaranga’s availability. Similarly, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is still uncertain about fast bowler Thushara’s status.
The Sri Lanka Cricket Board stated that the NOCs for these players will depend on the results of their fitness tests.
Dushmantha Chameera, Pathum Nissanka, and Dasun Shanaka have already been granted permission to play in IPL 2026.
In addition to Sri Lankan players, the absence of several Australian players in the early phase of IPL 2026 has also posed challenges for various teams. SRH captain Pat Cummins will not be available for the initial matches, and Isaan Kishan has been appointed as the captain in his stead. SRH’s first match in IPL 2026 is scheduled for March 28 against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). RCB’s Josh Hazlewood and Delhi Capitals’ Mitchell Starc will also be unavailable for the early matches.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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