In a recent announcement addressing concerns about the fitness levels of the Pakistan national cricket team, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi unveiled a bold initiative. He revealed that the players would undergo intensive training alongside the Pakistan Army to train with the Pakistan Army from March 25th to April 8th, spanning ten gruelling days.
PCB’s Chairman’s Concerns and Call to Action
Mohsin Naqvi, visibly concerned about the team’s performance, didn’t hold back in his assessment that he made during the Pakistan Super League. “When I watched the matches in Lahore, I couldn’t help but notice the lack of power-hitting from our players. It seemed like only foreign players were capable of sending the ball into the stands with ease,” he remarked.
Prioritizing Physical Conditioning for Future Success
Highlighting the significance of upcoming fixtures, Naqvi stressed the imperative of the team being in prime physical condition. “We have important series against New Zealand, Ireland, England, and the T20 World Cup looming ahead. We cannot afford to neglect our fitness any longer. When will we train?’ but there was no time. However, we’ve found a window, where we’ve organized a camp in Kakul (military academy) from March 25 to April 8. The Pakistan Army will be involved in your training, and hopefully, they’ll help you out.”
A strategic Move to Train with Pakistan Army
The decision to train with the Pakistan Army isn’t unprecedented. In the past, under the leadership of Misbah-ul-Haq, the team had embarked on a similar journey to Kakul Academy for preparations against England. Misbah’s iconic celebration of a century with push-ups and a military salute during that series still resonates with fans.
National Duty Takes Precedence
Addressing concerns about players prioritizing T20 leagues over national duties, Naqvi urged a change in mindset. “While financial gains are important, representing Pakistan should be the top priority for every player. Sacrifices are necessary for the greater good,” he asserted.
Naqvi assured the players of the PCB’s full support but clarified that national duty must always come first. “We can enhance central contracts, but players must commit to putting Pakistan before all else,” he added. Moreover, he also gave his example to substantiate his argument. “I’m not going to say you mustn’t earn money, or ask you to make sacrifices we are also not ready to make. But let me give you one example. One year ago, I was asked to become the chief minister of Punjab, and it caused me a financial loss in my business. I had to leave that aside and incur several extra costs. But I had a desire to represent Pakistan, and so I had to make that sacrifice,”
Previously, Haris Rauf’s central contract was terminated by PCB after he refused to play against Australia in a test series. There were varying opinions about this. Some found it justified, others found it unnecessary and cruel.
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