Sri Lanka Cricket says that Lasith Malinga has been called for a fitness assessment test before an expert panel of doctors appointed by the cricket board on Wednesday (April 20).
Indian media reported yesterday that the Sri Lankan pacer joined the Mumbai Indians squad on Friday evening, following uncertainty surrounding his availability for the ninth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Responding to the concerns of the media with regards to Malinga’s current status with the Mumbai Indians, SLC said that the fast bowler has not informed Sri Lanka Cricket of his travel to India, nor his intention to play for the IPL.
“There is no bar on Mr. Malinga travelling to, watching, or participating in practice or training of Cricket anywhere in the world,” it said in a statement today.
However, his ability to play is contingent on receiving a No Objection Certificate from SLC for which; SLC appointed expert panel of Medical professionals must clear his injury status and he must be declared ‘Match Fit’ by physio, trainer, coach and selectors.
“Therefore, Mr. Malinga will present himself before the SLC panel of expert doctors on Wednesday (20) and depending on the outcome of the said medical examinations, be required to face a match fitness grading after which SLC will take the next appropriate steps.”
“We also wish to inform you that there will be explanation called from Mr. Malinga with regards to his statements to the media in the recent days, and suitable action will be taken forthwith,” SLC said.
Although Malinga made it to Sri Lanka’s World T20 squad, he once again opted out of the crucial tournament, citing fitness issues.
As a result, Sri Lanka were forced to play the tournament without their main bowler and the defending champions were knocked out from the World T20 in the first round.
Following the early exit at the tournament, SLC selection committee chairman Aravinda de Silva had said that he doubted Malinga’s fitness claims.
This had prompted the bowler to make certain comments to the media regarding the SLC hierarchy.
