Kusal Perera, Asela Gunaratne left out of Sri Lanka squad for India Tests

All-rounder Asela Gunaratne and wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Perera have missed the flight for the Test match series against India. The two players reportedly failed to prove their match fitness and hence were left out of the 15-man squad. The team for the 3-match Test series was picked up yesterday and the squad list has been sent to the sports minister for his approval.

As per the recent reports in Dailynews.lk, former skipper Angelo Mathews, along with Kusal Perera and Asela Gunaratne, managed to pass the yoyo tests ahead of the squad selection. However, only Mathews could prove his match fitness. The Chairman of Selectors, Mr. Graeme Labrooy, mentioned that Kusal and Gunaratne could not be picked due to their match fitness concerns. He, however, added that the two players will be considered for other assignments.

“Angelo Mathews, Asela Gunaratne and Kusal Perera all passed the yoyo and skinfold tests but as Asela and Kusal were short of match fitness we did not select them. They will probably be considered for the one-day series that starts on December 10 as they will be able to play in the Under 23 tournament that is due to commence shortly and prove their match fitness,” said chairman of selectors Graeme Labrooy.

Fitness test report a must

Kusal Perera last played for Sri Lanka in the ICC Champions Trophy this year. Gunaratne, on the other hand, had injured himself during the first Test against India at home recently. The chairman of selector was very direct in citing that the fitness test is a must for the players returning to the national setup. The directive has been set by the higher officials.

“This was a directive we received from the Sports Minister to prove that the individual selected is declared physically fit. Without the report the Minister would not accept the names. We have been following this procedure since we picked the teams for the series against Pakistan,” the Selector mentioned.