NCL fitness test ‘quite satisfactory’ after day one

Around 150 players took part in the first day of the National Cricket League (NCL) fitness tests at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday, with BCB sources describing the overall results as ‘quite satisfactory’.

The second phase of the fitness tests will be held at the same venue on Wednesday.

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Most national team players had already undergone two fitness tests and were therefore not required to attend the first day's session. Players from Khulna, Dhaka, Barishal and Sylhet divisions took part in tests for both the first and second XI.

The BCB is now planning to conduct fitness tests twice a year as physical conditioning receives greater emphasis within the domestic cricket structure.

“We conducted the fitness test with a focus on the NCL, as we have done in other years. But the format is coming along nicely and we will hold two tests for all the players every year so that we know what condition they are in,” BCB trainer Iftekhar Ifti told reporters after Tuesday's tests.

“We will provide the results in a day or two, most probably it will take a day. After seeing the results, we will see whether someone’s fitness has deteriorated. Since it’s for first-class cricket, there is a minimum level of physical fitness that needs to be attained to take the field. That’s why we are putting in the effort,” he added.

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The players were required to complete a 1,600-metre run on the athletics track. The BCB set the benchmark at seven minutes for fast bowlers and 7:20 for batters. Sources said the teams averaged around 6:50 during the first day's tests.

Four players failed the tests on Tuesday, although they will have opportunities to retake them.

“If someone fails, or maybe they were sick, in such instances we will take a test after 10 days. If they fail that one, 10 days later we will hold another test,” Ifti said.

“We will take responsibility for those who have weaknesses in fitness. Ultimately, if they fail, they won’t get anywhere, so we will try to get them to pass. In that regard, fitness training will increase, but I can’t really say whether they will be able to play since that decision is with the board,” he added.