Sri Lanka Cricket’s renewed push for higher fitness standards has brought mixed results, with a significant number of centrally contracted players yet to meet the required benchmarks. Among those still pending their mandatory fitness assessments are Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana, two key figures expected to feature in the IPL 2026, according to a report by ESPN.

Out of the 45 players holding central contracts, only 24 have successfully passed the fitness tests so far. Fifteen players, including Hasaranga and Pathirana, are yet to complete the process, while six others have reportedly failed at least one attempt. The reasons behind the delays range from injury setbacks to logistical challenges, creating uncertainty around player availability in the near term.

Hasaranga’s situation remains particularly unclear. The leg-spinning all-rounder has been sidelined since suffering a left hamstring injury during Sri Lanka’s opening match of the T20 World Cup against Ireland in February. With no confirmed timeline for his fitness test and no request submitted yet for a No Objection Certificate, doubts continue to linger over his immediate return to competitive cricket.

Pathirana, on the other hand, appears to be making steady progress in his recovery. After picking up a calf strain during a T20 World Cup fixture against Australia, the fast bowler has resumed bowling in the nets. Those close to the player remain optimistic that he could travel to India by mid-April for his IPL commitments. His fitness test is expected to take place soon, although an official date has not been announced.

The stricter fitness regime introduced by Sri Lanka Cricket is not limited to the national setup. It has also been implemented in the ongoing National Super League, though with less demanding criteria. Players in the domestic tournament are required to meet basic thresholds in a 2km run and a skin-fold test, without a points-based system.

In contrast, centrally contracted players are evaluated through a more comprehensive scoring structure that includes sprinting, agility, and jump tests, alongside endurance and body composition assessments. A minimum score is required to pass, reflecting the board’s intent to elevate overall athletic standards within the national pool.

The impact of these measures is already evident at the domestic level. Of the 87 players participating in the National Super League, 23 have failed to meet the minimum fitness standards. These players have been given until April 19 to qualify. While they are still allowed to compete in the interim, failure to pass within the deadline could result in financial penalties, including the loss of match fees, and may affect their future participation in the tournament.

Sri Lanka’s men’s 4x400m relay team has earned a place at the upcoming World Athletics Relays, set to be held in Gaborone, Botswana on May 2 and 3. The qualification comes after a strong showing at the Invitational Relay Championship in Chandigarh, India, where the team delivered an impressive performance.

Clocking a time of 3:02.16, the Sri Lankan quartet ranked among the top teams globally, marking the second-fastest 4x400m relay time in the nation’s history. The team featured Aruna Darshana, Pasindu Kodikara, Kalhara Indupa, and Sadew Rajakaruna, whose combined effort highlights the country’s growing strength in track and field.

This achievement not only secures Sri Lanka’s participation at the prestigious World Relays but also places them in contention for a major milestone. The top 12 teams at the event will qualify directly for the World Athletics Championships 2027 in their respective relay categories, adding further significance to the competition.

Men’s 4x400m Relay Qualified Teams

Botswana, South Africa, Belgium, Qatar, Great Britain & Northern Ireland, Jamaica, Netherlands, France, Kenya, Portugal, Australia, Japan, Zimbabwe, China, Brazil, India, Hungary, Spain, Poland, Sri Lanka, Senegal, Germany, Nigeria, Thailand

Note- (USA has withdrawn from the event)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are staring at an early exit from the IPL 2026 season after suffering their third consecutive defeat, this time against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who secured a commanding 43-run victory.

RCB delivered a batting masterclass, posting a formidable 250/3 in their 20 overs. The innings was powered by explosive contributions from Tim David, who smashed an unbeaten 70 off just 25 balls, and skipper Rajat Patidar, who remained not out on a blistering 48 off 19 deliveries.

Devdutt Padikkal added a fluent 50, while Phil Salt chipped in with 46 at the top. Despite picking up three wickets, CSK bowlers struggled to contain the run flow, conceding at 12.50 runs per over.

In response, CSK endured a disastrous start, losing three wickets within the first three overs. Sarfaraz Khan offered some resistance with a quickfire 50, while Prashant Veer (43) and Jamie Overton (37) tried to revive the chase. However, the steep target proved too much as CSK were bowled out for 207 in 19.4 overs.

RCB’s bowling attack was led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who claimed three crucial wickets, while Jacob Duffy and Krunal Pandya chipped in with two apiece.

With three losses on the trot, CSK now find themselves in a precarious position in the points table, needing a swift turnaround to keep their playoff hopes alive.