Defending champions Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have suffered a major setback just before the start of IPL 2026. Their star fast bowler Nuwan Thushara will not be able to play in the tournament after he was denied a No Objection Certificate (NOC) by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).
Thushara was expected to play an important role for RCB this season. The team had retained him after his impressive performance with the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024. His bowling, especially in the death overs, made him a valuable player, and fans were excited to see him in RCB colours.
However, reports say that Thushara failed a mandatory fitness test set by Sri Lanka Cricket. Under new rules, all Sri Lankan players must pass fitness tests before they are allowed to play in foreign leagues like the IPL. This rule has been introduced to make sure players stay fit and available for international matches.
Because of this, SLC did not give him permission to take part in IPL 2026. This has come as a big disappointment for both the player and the franchise. RCB were depending on him to strengthen their bowling attack, especially in their opening match.
RCB are set to begin their campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Without Thushara, the team will now have to adjust their plans and look for other options in their bowling lineup.
Meanwhile, some other Sri Lankan players have been cleared to play in the IPL. Dushmantha Chameera and Pathum Nissanka have received approval after meeting the required fitness standards. Interestingly, Kusal Janith Perera has been allowed to join his Pakistan Super League team even without completing the fitness test, as he is currently not part of Sri Lanka’s main international plans.
Despite this setback, RCB still have a strong squad for IPL 2026. The team includes experienced and star players like Virat Kohli, Tim David, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. These players will play a key role in helping the team perform well this season.
RCB will now focus on overcoming this challenge and starting their title defense on a strong note. Fans will be hoping that the team can adapt quickly and continue their winning form despite missing an important player.