Be fit, or brace for impact!
Out of the 80 players selected for the NSL tournament, which begins tomorrow, 23 have failed to reach the required benchmarks. The assessment for domestic cricketers is based on two components, the 2km time trial and the skin-fold measurement. Those who did not meet the standards will still be allowed to participate in the tournament, but they have been given until April 19 to reattempt and pass the test. Failure to do so will affect both their earnings and contract eligibility.
Players who have not yet passed will be permitted to play matches with a substantial reduction in match fees. They also will not be considered for NSL contracts for the season ahead. The policy aims to create accountability while allowing players time to improve during the competition.
“We are trying to maintain a structure across the board where players maintain a minimum level of fitness,” a SLC official said. “We are not asking them to be super athletes but maintain a minimum standard”.
Unlike national players, who undergo a comprehensive fitness assessment consisting of five components, domestic cricketers are evaluated only on endurance and body composition. The minimum requirement for the 2km run has been set at eight minutes and 30 seconds, while skin-fold levels must be 85 or below. These benchmarks are intended to ensure that players maintain acceptable conditioning levels without overly complex testing procedures. SLC sources said that the board had funded clubs to upgrade their facilities and run a structured fitness programme to keep the players fit and injury free.
According to sources, an NSL player earns Rs. 110,000 per match, along with the opportunity of securing a contract with SLC. For many in the domestic circuit, meeting the required fitness standards is crucial not only for selection but also for career progression and financial stability.
SLC has intensified its focus on fitness following concerns over multiple injuries suffered by national players during the recent ICC T20 World Cup. By enforcing stricter standards at domestic level, the board hopes to develop a fitter pool of players capable of coping with the physical demands of international cricket.