Fears that Sachin Tendulkar is not completely fit were put to rest on Tuesday, with the Indian cricket team's physiotherapist, John Gloster, declaring that the batsman cleared a fitness test.
Talking to the media at the end of the second day of the cricket skills camp, Gloster was drawn into speaking on coach Greg Chappell's remarks that Tendulkar was not fit to throw the ball from deep and needed to be protected by making him field inside the 30-yard circle.
Gloster, who also asked whether there was lack of communication in this regard, dismissed all such talk by stating, "Sachin has passed the fitness test to play in Sri Lanka. I can only say this much. He was flamboyant in his batting today."
Gloster was referring to Tendulkar's innings in the mock match played amongst the players. Opening the innings with Rahul Dravid, Tendulkar scored a run-a-ball 26, inclusive of four fours.
On the second camp that commenced on Monday, Gloster said, "I want to see them as to how they are moving, their agility and endurance. They have all got physical targets and that they are achieving the target is in itself a happy news."
Gloster, who also interacted with officials of global shoe manufacturing company Nike during the day, said the right footwear is a must for sportsmen, especially cricketers.
"The most important thing for any athlete, particularly a cricketer, is that they must have the required and correct footwear to avoid injuries on his low back, legs and knee. It is important to advise what they should wear. Gregory King and myself attend to this aspect," he said.
