PCB Issues Ultimatum to Players: Improve Fitness or Lose Contracts
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a stern warning to several centrally contracted players, demanding significant improvements in their fitness levels. The ultimatum comes after a series of fitness tests conducted earlier this month, where some players failed to meet the required benchmarks.
The PCB’s fitness trainer and physiotherapist will conduct another round of fitness assessments on Monday in Lahore. Players who fail to meet the standards risk losing their central contracts. “The players with central and domestic contracts have been told in clear terms that there will be no compromise on fitness,” a board official stated.
The warning stems from concerns raised by foreign head coaches Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten, who have emphasized the importance of fitness in international cricket. The tests assess stamina, endurance, muscle strength, and other crucial factors.
The PCB has delayed the announcement of the list of players eligible for central contracts for the 2024/2025 period, which typically runs from July to July. Last year, the announcement was postponed until September due to changes in board leadership.
This year, the board is expected to reduce the number of players receiving central contracts from the current 27. The new coaches are also placing a strong emphasis on performance and behavioral evaluations.
The official revealed that players who struggled in the previous fitness tests have been given two months to improve. The upcoming tests on Monday will determine their progress.
The Pakistan team has faced criticism in the past for its fitness standards compared to other international teams. After the World Cup in India last year, team director Muhammad Hafeez and former captain Misbah ul Haq alleged that former head coach Mickey Arthur and captain Babar Azam had instructed the trainer to ease up on fitness demands, allowing players to focus on performance.
The PCB’s latest move signals a shift in approach, prioritizing fitness as a non-negotiable requirement for players representing Pakistan.