Jayasuriya making steady progress, says physio

Sanath Jayasuriya is making steady progress in his battle to be fit for Sri Lanka's opening game in the ICC Champions Trophy against Pakistan starting Sept 12.

Jayasuriya, such a crucial component of Sri Lanka's one-day team, dislocated his right shoulder and damaged ligaments in the Morocco Cup 2002 final.

His arm has now been removed from a sling and team physio Alex Kontouri wants the left-hander to start gentle batting practice during the following week.

Kontouri said: "The sling was removed earlier in the week and I am satisfied with the progress Sanath has made in the last few days."

"He's getting physiotherapy twice a day as we try to strengthen the muscles and ligaments around the damaged shoulder joint," he explained.

Although due to start road running and light batting drills next week, he will not have a full batting session until Sept 8. Only then will the management know whether he can play.