Kamran Akmal lashes out at PCB over online fitness tests

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal expressed his displeasure over the online fitness tests being conducted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), during the coronavirus (Covid-19) lockdown.

While speaking on a local news channel, the wicketkeeper-batsman advised the Pakistan head coach-cum-chief selector, Misbahul Haq, to alter his fitness policy.

“It becomes really difficult to give fitness tests after every two or three months during the season,” said Akmal. “PCB should rather train players by setting up a camp in the off season. This is what previous coaches like the late Bob Woolmer used to do, as too much training can cause injury to bowlers and also results in loss of stamina for batsmen.”

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Pakistan’s middle-order batsman Sohaib Maqsood, on Saturday, suffered an injury while giving the PCB’s online fitness test. The right-handed batsman suffered a deep cut on his knees because of a broken glass table, while performing the necessary exercises for the test.

While the 38-year-old understands the importance of fitness, but he stressed that more emphasis should be given to skill development.

“Fitness is important but skill development needs more hardwork and players should spend more time in improving their skills,” he said. “Misbah himself understands that he has performed in international cricket for a long time due to his skills.”

PCB’s centrally contracted players started going through their online fitness tests on Monday, which have been designed by the strength and conditioning coach of the Pakistan team Yasir Malik.