Sachin's fitness test likely on May 20

CHENNAI: Sachin Tendulkar, recuperating from a shoulder injury, is likely to undergo a fitness test at the MRF Pace Foundation here on May 20.

Tendulkar will arrive here on Monday to train and practice at the state-of-the-art academy from May 16 to 20 under the watchful eyes of trainer Ramji Srinivasan.

"It is the policy of the BCCI to utilise the services of Ramji Srinivasan and Indian team's former trainer, Andrew Leipus. The present team management is already in the West Indies to play the five one-day-series and Ramji's services has been sought as per the recommendations of both the trainer Gregory King and physio John Gloster", BCCI Secretary Niranjan Shah said

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He said the BCCI was in the process of setting up a permanent physical conditioning and rehabilitation centre.

Asked whether the services of Ramji and Leipus were regularised, the Board Secretary said:  “We will use their services whenever both King and Gloster are away."  Tendulkar will also sign as Brand Ambasador of GM Reynold Pens on  Monday evening.

As for Lakshmipathy Balaji, who is also out of action with a back problem, Shah said "both King and Gloster have given a good and positive report about his recovery.  Details of the report will be made known to the national selectors, who will be picking the squad to play in the Tests in West Indies on May 24."