The Indian Premier League is all set to begin on 28 March 2026, and various Sri Lankan players are doubtful to join the tournament due to injury concerns and SLC board clearance. However, in a major development, Sri Lanka Cricket has cleared Eshan Malinga to participate in the upcoming edition of the IPL. As per India TV news, the player is expected to report to Sunrisers Hyderabad’s camp on Tuesday, March 24.
He is all set to arrive in Hyderabad with Kamindu Mendis, who has been handed the no-objection certificate. On the other hand, there is no update on the three Sri Lankan players, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, and Wanindu Hasaranga.
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Many Sri Lankan Players are Still in Doubt
As per Cricbuzz, Matheesha Pathirana and Wanindu Hasaranga have not even gotten the chance to attend the fitness tests as of yet, which means that their arrival in the tournament will be delayed. Pathirana was signed by the Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 18 Crore and is now likely to miss the first phase because of injury concerns. Also, the franchise is waiting for Pathirana to recover instead of seeking a replacement.
Talking about Wanindu Hasaranga, he is signed by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 2 Crore. The franchise has not made any official statement and is still waiting for the official confirmation from the SLC regarding his clearance.
While some more Sri Lankan players, Pathum Nissanka, Dushmantha Chameera (both Delhi Capitals), Dasun Shanaka, who is part of the Rajasthan Royals, and Kamindu Mendis (SRH) in IPL 2026 have already been cleared. They all have received the no-objection certificates.
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Pat Cummins set to arrive in Bengaluru on March 24
According to India TV news, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s regular captain Pat Cummins is expected to arrive in Bengaluru on March 24. Also, Sunrisers Hyderabad will be taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28.
However, as per reports, Cummins is likely to miss the first phase of the Indian Premier League.
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In addition, the captain’s meet, which is going to take place in Mumbai on March 25, will be attended by the stand-in captain Ishan Kishan, as per sources. All the captains are set to attend the meeting with the IPL and broadcasters. The photo-op will start at 12 PM and will end with the meeting with the Board of Control for Cricket in India from 4:30 pm to 6 pm.