Fajardo cleared of serious calf injury but still questionable for Game 2

June 27 ------ June Mar Fajardo is expected to suit up for San Miguel in Game 2 of their best-of-seven semifinals against Barangay Ginebra today. That, after the test results on his right calf, which seemingly bothered the eight-time Most Valuable Player during the Beermen’s 73-71 loss in Game 1, came out negative of any serious injuries.

Fajardo complained about feeling some tightness on his calf during the contest and was even seen limping and wincing in pain.

The Philippine Cup Best Player of the Conference frontrunner had to be pulled out of the floor to get some treatment at the far end of the bench during the second half – stretches which Barangay Ginebra made sure to take advantage of to comeback from an 18-point deficit.

Fajardo was far from his usual self with only six points to show although he pulled down 19 rebounds in the contest. “According to our physical therapist, the doctors have noted tightness in June Mar’s calf muscles but he is cleared to play,” SMB team manager Gee Abanilla confirmed in a text message. However, It remains to be seen how fit Fajardo can play or whether head coach Leo Austria would utilize his prized big man or not. “His actual participation for tomorrow will all depend on coach Leo Austria’s decision,” added Abanilla.

Missing the services of Fajardo, however, could be a huge blow for the Beermen especially with how guys like Japeth Aguilar, Troy Rosario and even Raymond Aguilar outplayed the SMB frontline with Fajardo on the bench in Game 1. Should Austria decide to sit out the 6-foot-10 behemoth, the Beermen will have to rely on Rodney Brondial, Mo Tautuaa and maybe even guys like Andreas Cahilig and Don Trollano to man the paint.

Source: mb.com.ph