Tendulkar's test likely on May 20

Sachin Tendulkar, recuperating from a shoulder injury, is likely to undergo a fitness test at the MRF Pace Foundation on May 20.

Tendulkar will arrive in Chennai on Monday to train and practice at the state-of-the-art academy from May 16 to 20 under the watchful eyes of trainer Ramji Srinivasan.

"It is the policy of the Board to utilise the services of Ramji Srinivasan and Indian team's former trainer, Andrew Leipus. The present team management is already in the West Indies to play the five-match one-day series and Ramji's services has been sought as per the recommendations of both the trainer Gregory King and physio John Gloster," BCCI Secretary Niranjan Shah told PTI.

He said the Board was in the process of setting up a permanent physical conditioning and rehabilitation centre.

Asked whether the services of Ramji and Leipus were regularised, the Board Secretary said "we will use their services whenever both King and Gloster are away."

Tendulkar will also sign as Brand Ambassador of GM Reynold Pens tomorrow evening.

Also Read Tendulkar will be missed: Lara India to stick with 5-bowler theory Tight security for Indian team Schedule: India in West Indies

As for Lakshmipathy Balaji, who is also out of action with a back problem, Shah said, "both King and Gloster have given a good and positive report about his recovery. Details of the report will be made known to the national selectors, who will be picking the squad to play in the Tests in West Indies on May 24."

Meanwhile, Ramji told PTI "the training and net practice sessions will be decided only after a discussion with Tendulkar tomorrow. The physical training, in particular, will be tailor-made according to Tendulkar's needs."

He explained that the sessions involved functional training, besides core strength stability, Scapula strengthening stability, agility, speed and footwork movement training.

"Accordingly, Tendulkar will be extended training as per the recommendations of Gloster and the requirement of Tendulkar. It could be three training sessions besides net practice during his stay at the Academy," Ramji said.

"Leipus has informed me that he will be in the city on Tuesday or Wednesday next," he added.

Over 15 trainees besides Balaji have been attending the ongoing training camp at the academy under the tutelage of chief coach T A Sekar.

The academy boasts of four different pitches and these bowlers would be operating to the master batsman at the nets.