By Rex Clementine
The cricket officials of the country are to introduce drastic moves to avoid taking any unfit or half fit players on international tours. A top officials of the cricket board told "The Island" that hereafter emphasis will be placed on the fitness of cricketers on tours to improve results and any unfit cricketer will not be encouraged.

According to the new system, the selectors will pick a squad of 20 to 25 players initially and the physiotherapist of the team, Alex Kontouri will have to give the cricket board in writing a statement which explains the fitness level of the players. Subsequent to this report only the players will be subjected to selections.

According to the sources, Alex Kontouri will be notified about the new requirements on the team’s return to Colombo after the English tour and the new system will be implemented from the next immediate series with the intention on improving results.

The new move comes after a disappointing performance by the Sri Lankan cricket team in England and after several controversies over the fitness of players who have toured with the side.

Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilhara Ferando was called to England ahead of the first Test, but was not picked to play in the first two Tests since there were questions as to whether the bowler had gained full fitness. Another speed merchant, Ishara Amarasinghe was sent back mid way through the series due to a back injury. Surprisingly, Amarsinghe had only played in a couple of warm up games and had not done a major amount of work load to break down mid way though the series.

There was also the cause of Muttiah Muralitharan who was drafted in for the second Test Match despite the player being not fully fit. English media reported that the off-spinner was forced to play in the second Test by the team management, an accusation the management have denied.