SLC clears Eshan Malinga for IPL 2026; Hasaranga and Pathirana wait

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has cleared fast bowler Eshan Malinga to participate in the IPL. However, Nuwan Thushara, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Matheesha Pathirana are still awaiting clearance from the board.

Malinga will report to the Sunrisers Hyderabad on Tuesday, March 24. He will travel with Kamindu Mendis, who has already received his No Objection Certificate (NOC).

Wanindu Hasaranga (Lucknow Super Giants) and Matheesha Pathirana (Kolkata Knight Riders) missed scheduled fitness tests on Monday, delaying their arrival. KKR is prepared to wait for Pathirana's full recovery rather than seek a replacement.

There is no immediate update on Nuwan Thushara's (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) NOC status, as it is subject to a physical performance test. Other Sri Lankan players—Dushmantha Chameera, Pathum Nissanka (both Delhi Capitals), and Dasun Shanaka (Rajasthan Royals)—have been cleared.

Cummins to reach Bengaluru on March 24; Kishan to attend captains' meet

Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins is scheduled to arrive in Bengaluru on Tuesday, March 24. The team will face Royal Challengers Bangalore in the season opener on March 28.

Stand-in skipper Ishan Kishan will attend the IPL captains' meeting in Mumbai on March 25. The event includes a photo session and meetings with BCCI officials and broadcasters.