Nuwan Thushara, the young Sri Lankan fast bowler, is all set to miss the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League. This comes after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) refused to grant him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) based on a newly introduced strict fitness policy.
Thushara was retained by RCB for the upcoming season. However, after failing to pass the fitness test, it has become a major concern for RCB’s bowling lineup, especially with key players like Josh Hazlewood also likely to miss a significant part of the league.
Legendary Sri Lankan bowler Chaminda Vaas has expressed his disappointment over the board’s decision following Thushara’s failure to meet the new fitness standards. Vaas questioned the timing of the decision, stating that the board should have provided prior notice so players could prepare accordingly.
“At least the board should give some time or prior information so players can plan and meet the fitness standards. Introducing such policies suddenly can be very harsh, especially on young players who need time to adapt,” Vaas said.
On Nuwan Thushara, Vaas said, “Where was SLC for the last 4 years?”
Vaas further criticized SLC for its inconsistency in maintaining fitness standards. He pointed out that the board had ignored even basic fitness benchmarks over the last four years, and now, just days before the IPL, they have enforced strict rules.
“Fitness is extremely important in cricket, there’s no doubt about that. But you can’t ignore it for years and then suddenly enforce strict standards right before a major tournament. A player missing out now feels more like poor planning than discipline,” he added.
What Is the New Rule that made Nuwan Thushara out?
Under the latest policy, Sri Lankan players must obtain an NOC before participating in any international league or match.
SLC has made it mandatory for players to pass newly introduced physical performance tests to receive clearance for franchise leagues such as the IPL and PSL. Thushara’s participation was subject to clearing this test. However, he reportedly failed to meet the required fitness benchmarks, leading SLC to deny him the NOC. This could result in him losing his RCB contract worth approximately ₹1.6 crore.
Thushara had the opportunity to be part of the defending champions’ squad after missing out on the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. He was a key bowler for Sri Lanka during the 2025 Asia Cup but failed to maintain his form, eventually losing his place in the team.
With another opportunity slipping away, it may become difficult for the young pacer to regain his spot in the national side. Despite several fast bowlers being ruled out due to injuries, Thushara was not considered for selection, raising concerns about his standing in the team.
Sources suggest that while he is not injured and is match-fit, doubts remain over his overall fitness levels, prompting selectors to take a strict stance.
RCB’s Major Concern After Nuwan Thushara’s Exit
In the absence of Josh Hazlewood, who is already set to miss the first half of the season due to a hamstring injury, Thushara was expected to lead the RCB pace attack alongside Bhuvneshwar Kumar. However, after failing to clear the fitness test, RCB now faces a major concern regarding who will step up to fill the gap in their bowling lineup.
Last year's title winners will be seen playing the inaugural match of the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) against Sunrisers Hyderabad on 28th March in M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.Also read: Royal Challengers Bengaluru IPL 2026 Full Schedule: RCB Fixtures, Dates, Timings and Venues | Squad and Coaches
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