Just days before the start of IPL 2026, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have encountered another setback to their preparations. Despite assembling a competitive squad for the new season, injuries to key players have disrupted their plans ahead of the opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday.
Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is already expected to miss the early part of the tournament due to an injury sustained last year. The franchise had hoped the Australian pacer would be available from the outset, but his recovery has taken longer than anticipated.
Adding to their concerns, another pace option has become unavailable, creating further challenges for the team’s bowling unit.
Thushara Denied NOC for IPL Participation
Sri Lankan quick Nuwan Thushara has been refused a No Objection Certificate by Sri Lanka Cricket following the introduction of a new fitness policy. According to NewsWire, the pacer did not pass the required fitness test, leading the board to withhold clearance for participation in overseas franchise leagues. As a result, Thushara is set to miss the entire IPL 2026 season.
Under the revised regulations, Sri Lanka Cricket has made it mandatory for players to meet specific fitness standards in order to obtain approval to feature in international franchise competitions. Thushara’s availability for the IPL was contingent on clearing this assessment, and the decision has come just two days before the tournament begins.
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Fitness Concerns Despite No Injury
Sri Lanka Cricket has clarified that Thushara is not currently dealing with an injury, although concerns remain regarding his overall match fitness. While the right-arm seamer is capable of bowling in matches, selectors opted to take a firm stance due to his fitness levels falling short of the established benchmarks.
Fitness issues and inconsistent match readiness have also affected his recent T20I prospects. Thushara was part of Sri Lanka’s squad during last year’s Asia Cup but later lost his place in the side. During the T20 World Cup, the team dealt with multiple injuries among bowlers, yet Thushara was not brought back into the setup due to the same fitness concerns.
Impact on RCB’s Bowling Plans
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s batting lineup appears settled, but questions remain over their bowling strength heading into the new campaign. With Hazlewood sidelined for the time being, Thushara had been expected to feature in the playing XI, and his absence could prove significant for the franchise.
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The pacer holds an impressive T20I record for Sri Lanka, having claimed 36 wickets in 30 matches. His ability to operate effectively during the middle overs and pick up wickets at the death was viewed as a valuable asset, particularly in Hazlewood’s absence — a role RCB may now struggle to fill in IPL 2026.
