The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a stern warning to several centrally contracted players to improve their fitness levels. A round of physical tests is scheduled for Monday in Lahore, where players will be assessed by the team's fitness trainer and physiotherapist.
Following a previous fitness test where multiple players failed to meet the required benchmarks, the PCB has made it clear that there will be no compromise on fitness standards.
“The players who have central and domestic contracts have been told in clear terms that there will be no compromise on fitness and they have to meet the benchmarks set by the team’s fitness experts,” a board official said, as quoted by PTI.
The decision to prioritize fitness comes after a series of disappointing performances by the Pakistan cricket team. Former Team Director Muhammad Hafeez and former skipper Misbah ul Haq revealed that the previous coaching staff had relaxed the fitness requirements to focus on performance on the field.
The PCB's tough stance on fitness is also supported by the team's foreign head coaches, Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten. They have emphasized to the PCB Chairman that fitness is a non-negotiable aspect for professional cricketers.
“The two foreign head coaches, Jason Gillispie and Gary Kirsten had told the PCB Chairman that no player should be given any benefit as far as fitness levels are concerned,” the official said.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to conduct fitness tests on September 30 for approximately 8 to 10 players, some of whom missed previous assessments while others struggled to meet fitness standards.
To ensure fairness, the PCB aims to provide these players with a second chance, emphasizing that fitness concerns alone will not lead to penalties. A crucial component of the test will be the 2-kilometre run, where players are encouraged to enhance their performance.
In addition, the PCB plans to hire a Sports Medicine consultant to address fitness issues among cricketers at both domestic and international levels.