Bengaluru, March 27 -- Nuwan Thushara has been ruled out of at least the opening phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 after failing to clear a mandatory fitness test conducted by Sri Lanka Cricket, dealing a fresh setback to the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

According to a report from ESPNcricinfo, Thushara's failure to meet the required benchmark has resulted in the Sri Lanka board withholding a no-objection certificate (NOC), making him unavailable for immediate participation in the tournament.

According to SLC guidelines, players must secure a minimum score of 17 out of 29 across five fitness parameters to be eligible for selection in overseas leagues.

SLC chief executive Ashley de Silva confirmed t...