CSA doctor confirms board's stand on Dane van Niekerk's exclusion

Dane van Niekerk (Source: Twitter) 

It has been quite a devastating last week or so for the South African superstar Dane van Niekerk who was left out of the 15-player squad that will feature in the T20 World Cup on the grounds of not meeting the minimum fitness requirement.

It was later revealed that the all-rounder was unable to complete the 2 KM run within the stipulated time after several attempts which led to her ouster. The veteran was found short by a few seconds which Cricket South Africa (CSA), the reason to drop her.

It should be noted that CSA has been following the fitness policy quite stringently, as some other senior players have also faced the axe, previously. 

Recently, the time duration was reduced for both men and women by 30 seconds to improve fitness standards in the setup.

Moreover, Dr Shuaib Manjra, chief medical officer of CSA disclosed the criteria they have been following for selection. He explained how these tests are required to ensure players remain fit and can withstand the rigorous pressure of playing international cricket for a longer duration.  

"A minimum standards test is indicative of a player's commitment to fitness, to discipline, to the team culture. These are not fitness tests to determine how fit a player is. They're the minimum entry requirements. And they're very generous minimum standards,"

Further, it was mentioned that they have been working with the South African Cricketers' Association and both of them have agreed to impose the test.

"Players are contractually obligated to meet these standards and we have buy-in from the players and SACA. A player can have multiple attempts to reach the standard. We don't put a limit on it. But there has to be a cut-off before the squad is announced. We impose the standards rigorously."

South Africa's women's team would be playing in the T20 World Cup slated to begin on 10th February.

Also Read: Alex Carey wary of the Reverse-swing threat in Indian conditions