Eshan Malinga Cleared for SRH as Sri Lanka Stars Await Fitness Tests Before IPL 2026. Sunrisers Hyderabad have received a big boost before IPL 2026. Eshan Malinga has been cleared by Sri Lanka Cricket to join the squad. The young fast bowler recently passed his fitness test successfully. He had been recovering from a shoulder injury in recent weeks. The clearance means he can join SRH before the tournament starts.
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Malinga is expected to strengthen Hyderabad’s bowling attack this season. He impressed last season with his pace and picked up 13 wickets. The team management will hope he continues that form this year. However, there is still uncertainty around some other Sri Lankan players. There is no update yet on Nuwan Thushara’s IPL availability. He is expected to play for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru this season. His participation depends on passing the fitness test soon.
Uncertainty Around Other Sri Lankan Players
Meanwhile, two key players are yet to complete their fitness checks. Wanindu Hasaranga has not undergone his fitness test yet. Matheesha Pathirana is also waiting for assessment. Both players are currently recovering from recent injuries. Sri Lanka Cricket has made fitness tests mandatory for all players. No player will receive clearance without passing the required tests. This situation created concern for several IPL franchises. Teams are waiting for updates before finalising their playing combinations. Availability of overseas players is important for team balance.
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Reports suggest Pathirana may miss the early matches of IPL 2026. He could join his team later, depending on his recovery progress. Sri Lanka Cricket is focusing strongly on player fitness this season. They want players to be fully fit before joining overseas leagues. For now, SRH can be happy with Malinga’s clearance. Other teams will continue to wait for final updates.