Sri Lankan batting all-rounder likely to join IPL 2026 after clearing SLC fitness process

Along with Matheesha Pathirana, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Nuwan Thushara, another Sri Lankan star takes the headlines amid the Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026). This time, it is Sri Lankan batting all-rounder Charith Asalanka, who is rumoured to join IPL 2026. 

On Sunday, Amila Kalugalage shared a crucial update on the social media platform ‘X’. Kalugalage informed that Charith Asalanka has successfully passed the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) fitness process.  Kalugalage stated that the batting all-rounder is all set to start a new chapter in his professional cricketing career. He is expected to join his new franchise team on April 14. Though Kalugalage does not reveal for which franchise the cricketer is going to start the new chapter.

Official confirmation arrived on Sunday morning 

“Cleared. Committed. Ready for the next chapter. Charith Asalanka has completed all mandatory fitness protocols set by SLC and is set to fly out on 14th April to join his new franchise,” Amila Kalugalage wrote on a ‘X’ post.

Because of SLC’s new mandate related to the fitness standards for all of their key players, multiple cricketers are yet to join their respective franchises. The cricket governing board of Sri Lanka stated that players would be handed a No Objection Certificate once they cleared the fitness trials.

“This initiative aims to enhance players' physical performance standards in preparation for upcoming international assignments. Along with this program, players are also undergoing the mandatory physical performance tests, a routine process followed to check the fitness standards of the players,” SLC stated in their official statement.

"Only those who successfully meet the required standards of the physical performance tests will be cleared to participate in the ongoing domestic tournament and also granted an NOC to take part in IPL 2026,” it further continued.

When will Matheesha Pathirana join the Kolkata Knight Riders for the IPL 2026 season?

Because of the initiative, star Sri Lankan players like Matheesha Pathirana are yet to join the Kolkata Knight Riders. According to the latest reports, Pathirana has cleared all the fitness-related protocols and will join the IPL franchise soon for the IPL 2026 season.

The case of Nuwan Thushara turned more severe as he dragged the cricket board to court seeking the NOC, so that he could participate in the overseas leagues. Later, taking a U-turn, the Lankan cricketer issued an apology, stating that he had no intention to create a rift with SLC.

Read More: IPL 2026: Two players OUT! RCB to change playing XI vs MI

Nuwan Thushara apologised to SLC

“My sole intention throughout this process has been to seek fairness and justice, as I genuinely feel that I have been treated unfairly in this matter. The steps I initially considered were driven by a desire to have my concerns heard and addressed appropriately, rather than to create conflict or bring disrepute to the organization,” the RCB pacer said in a statement.

"I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience, misunderstanding, or distress that my actions may have caused to Sri Lanka Cricket and its officials. With this in mind, I would like to express my willingness to withdraw any legal action and instead seek an amicable resolution to this matter. I remain hopeful that we can move forward positively and constructively,” he further said in his statement.