PCB to host high-level 'connection camp' on Monday

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to hold a significant "connection camp" on Monday at a local hotel to strategize the future of Pakistan cricket. This camp aims to create a clear roadmap and address key challenges facing the national team.

The camp will feature key players from the white-ball and red-ball formats, including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shan Masood, and others. Coaches Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten, along with assistant coach Azhar Mahmood and High-Performance specialist David Reid, will also attend the session.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the importance of the camp, saying, “The Connection Camp is a critical step toward unifying our approach to restore Pakistan cricket to its former glory. Our aim is to identify key issues, foster open dialogue and collectively agree on a strategic path forward. By addressing these challenges directly, we will establish clear, actionable goals that meet the expectations of our passionate cricket fans.”

Naqvi also highlighted that this camp is just the beginning of ongoing efforts to reshape Pakistan cricket, with a focus on long-term success and keeping fans at the heart of their mission.

“This is the first step in an ongoing journey to reshape Pakistan cricket. The PCB will continue these collaborative efforts to ensure long-term success, keeping fans at the heart of our mission," he further added.

Pakistan's red-ball captain Shan Masood expressed his commitment to the initiative, stating, “This is an important moment for us as players. We’re fully committed to working with the PCB to reignite the pride and passion that Pakistan cricket is known for. These discussions will help us set a strong course for the future and we are excited to be part of this collaborative effort,"

Masood added that the outcomes of the session will include setting performance benchmarks, creating player development programs, and enhancing grassroots cricket. 

“The outcomes of the session will include performance benchmarks, player development programmes and strategies to enhance grassroots cricket. This initiative aligns with the PCB’s vision to not only improve immediate team performance but also ensure long-term sustainability of excellence in the sport," he further added.

Red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie shared similar sentiments, saying, “We’re all striving toward the same goal—raising the standard of Pakistan cricket and creating a winning culture.”

White-ball coach Gary Kirsten also expressed his enthusiasm for the camp, stating, “As a coach, it is my responsibility to setup the best environment possible for the players to thrive. We will focus on refining our approach in white-ball cricket to meet the standards of the highest levels of international competition. Most importantly, we will do everything possible to ensure the people of Pakistan are proud of their national team."