Sri Lanka ODI captain Charith Asalanka and veteran batsman Dinesh Chandimal have publicly rejected reports claiming they failed fitness tests ahead of the upcoming New Zealand A series, with both players calling for responsible media reporting.
Asalanka denied the claims outright, stating he passed the test by obtaining the required points under the scoring system used by Sri Lanka Cricket. SLC confirmed that Asalanka had been granted a No Objection Certificate to participate in franchise leagues after successfully completing the necessary fitness requirements.
Chandimal was more vocal in his response, describing himself as “deeply hurt and disappointed” by the reports. He confirmed he had passed the required fitness test and received official clearance, adding that publishing unverified claims creates “unnecessary pressure, mental stress, and emotional strain” on players.
The controversy stems from a local television channel that published a list of players allegedly failing fitness tests. Several other Sri Lanka cricketers also disputed the report, describing the claims as false. Chandimal stressed that sensitive player fitness data should remain confidential between players and team management.
The dispute comes during a turbulent period for Sri Lankan cricket. Pace bowler Nuwan Thushara recently filed legal action against SLC over a denied IPL no-objection certificate, while the board has been restructuring its coaching setup with new bowling and fielding appointments.
The National Super League 4-Day Tournament, running April 6 to May 7, is set to begin shortly. Asalanka will captain Colombo while Dhananjaya de Silva leads Dambulla in the domestic competition that serves as a key selection platform for national team spots.
