IPL 2026 Updates: Captains’ Meet Scheduled on March 25; SLC Confirms NOCs and Fitness Tests. Preparations for IPL 2026 have intensified, with key administrative and player-availability updates emerging this week. The BCCI has confirmed the captains’ and coaches’ meeting on March 25 in Mumbai. The event will run from 12 noon to 6 PM and includes an official photoshoot. All ten captains and head coaches are expected to attend the six-hour session. This annual gathering plays a vital role in aligning teams before the tournament begins.
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Key Meeting to Set Tournament Tone
Franchise leaders will receive briefings on playing conditions and operational guidelines for IPL 2026. Officials are also expected to discuss updated rules and any changes in match regulations. Last season introduced changes in over-rate penalties and DRS usage during this meeting. Similar announcements could be made ahead of the new season, starting March 28. The finalised schedule now ensures full attendance, after earlier uncertainty about the meeting date. Teams will use this platform to clarify rules and finalise their pre-season strategies.
SLC Confirms NOCs, Fitness Tests Pending
Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed the reports regarding the IPL participation of its players. Dushmantha Chameera, Pathum Nissanka, and Kamindu Mendis have received their IPL NOCs. These three players are now cleared to join their respective franchises without restrictions. However, four other players must pass fitness tests before receiving clearance. Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga, and Nuwan Thushara remain under evaluation.
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Their fitness tests are scheduled for next week in Colombo on Monday and Tuesday. The results will determine whether they receive No Objection Certificates for IPL 2026. Several of these players are recovering from injuries sustained during recent international tournaments. Hasaranga is returning from a hamstring injury that affected his recent participation. A total of seven Sri Lankan players are involved in IPL contracts this season. Four of them are currently awaiting fitness clearance before joining their squads.