Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has firmly rejected claims that 19 national players had failed the Physical Performance Test, labeling the circulating report as factually incorrect and misleading.
In an official statement, SLC addressed the report that was aired on April 3, stating that it was “factually incorrect and baseless.” The board emphasized that the information had been published without proper verification, causing reputational damage not only to Sri Lanka Cricket but also to its players and the integrity of the game.
Clarifying the situation, SLC confirmed that several key players had successfully completed the Physical Performance Test conducted between February and April 2026 as part of the quarterly player evaluation process. The players who passed the test include Akila Dananjaya, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dinesh Chandimal, Lahiru Udara, Maheesh Theekshana, and Prabath Jayasuriya.
Meanwhile, SLC explained that a group of players — Matheesha Pathirana, Wanindu Hasaranga, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Binura Fernando, and Lahiru Kumara — have not yet undergone the test due to valid reasons such as ongoing rehabilitation and related circumstances.
Senior batter Dinesh Chandimal welcomed the clarification issued by Sri Lanka Cricket but also called for accountability regarding the spread of misinformation. He stressed the importance of identifying those responsible for circulating false claims that could harm players and the sport.
Chandimal noted that while he appreciated the correction made after he publicly addressed the issue, it remains the duty of the relevant authorities to investigate the origins of such misleading reports.
Reflecting on his own career, Chandimal reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining high fitness standards and serving the national team with dedication. He stated that regardless of how long he continues to represent Sri Lanka, his focus will always remain on giving his best to the team and the game.
He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the fans, highlighting that representing Sri Lanka goes beyond being just a profession. Chandimal described it as a responsibility, a pride, and a privilege, adding that the team continues to play for the supporters who stand by them through every situation.
In a separate development, the television channel that initially aired the report stated during a subsequent programme that the information had been provided by a senior Sri Lanka Cricket official, raising further questions about the source and verification of the claims.
