Sohag Gazi and Toufiq Khan Tushar have failed to meet the fitness standard set ahead of the National Cricket League, putting their participation in the tournament at risk. They could not meet the criteria to pass the fitness test at the National Stadium on Tuesday.
Players were asked to complete three laps of 1,600 metres each on the athletics track during Tuesday’s fitness test. Batters were required to complete each lap within 7:20, while bowlers had a benchmark of seven minutes.
Sources said the teams averaged around 6:50 in the test, but Gazi and Tushar fell short of the required mark.
Both players had previously been warned about their fitness, according to a source familiar with the matter. One was unable to finish the test after suffering cramps and leg pain, while the other took more than eight and a half minutes to complete the required distance.
“They were warned about it, but they are not taking it seriously enough. One of them developed cramps and pain in his leg after completing three laps. He said he had pain and could not continue,” the source said.
“However, we won’t allow them to play unless they clear the fitness test.”
The pair will have two more opportunities to pass. The next test is scheduled for October 3, with a final chance on October 13. They will not be allowed to play competitive matches between the tests.
“If these two players cannot pass any of these three tests, then they will not be allowed to play in the NCL,” the source said.
Failure in all three attempts could have wider consequences. The players would also be excluded from drafts for other BCB tournaments where the fitness criteria apply and would not be considered for first-class central contracts for the following season.
