Amir’s use of personal trainer ignites more controversy

 Amir’s use of personal trainer ignites more controversy

The Pakistan cricket team’s early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024 has sparked discussions and controversies, with various factors being cited for their poor performance. Among these, the role of Mohammad Amir and the presence of players' family members have been highlighted.

Mohammad Amir, who returned to the national side after reversing his retirement, opted for separate training sessions with his personal trainer instead of the team’s trainer. This arrangement was permitted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

While Amir covered the expenses of his foreign trainer, the PCB had to make logistical arrangements to accommodate this setup during tours in the United States, Ireland, and England.

Amir’s choice to train separately is believed to have affected team cohesion. His performance in the tournament was under scrutiny, particularly after conceding 18 runs in a Super Over against the US, which significantly hindered Pakistan's chances of advancing.

The sources said Amir took training from a foreign trainer despite the availability of one for the national side.

However, the pacer was given permission from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) management to bring his personal trainer not only to the United States but during Ireland and England tours as well, the sources said.

They said though the trainer’s expenses were borne by the pacer himself but the cricket body had to make arrangements in this regard.

“Surprisingly, Amir did not hold training with the team, rather he held separate sessions with his personal trainer,” the sources said.

Amir conceded 18 runs in Super Over of one of the biggest upset of the mega event, following which Pakistan’s chances for advancing into the Super 8 stage were drastically cut.

Several players traveled with their families, which reportedly led to distractions. The touring contingent included about 26-28 family members of the players and support staff.

Post-match parties and gatherings involving players and their families were noted, which might have contributed to a lack of focus and unity within the team.

The US team, participating for the first time in the T20 World Cup, defeated Pakistan in a crucial match. This win allowed the US to advance to the Super 8 stage from Group A along with India, while Pakistan’s chances were significantly diminished.

The incidents reflect broader issues related to team dynamics and preparation. The allowances made for personal trainers and the presence of family members during the tournament could indicate a need for stricter management and clearer policies to maintain focus and unity during major competitions.

The first time T20 World Cup playing nation, US, defeated Pakistan in this match. The debutants cruised into the Super 8 stage from Group A along with India.

Other than Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Imad Wasim and Wahab Riaz were also accompanied by their wives and children, while skipper Babar Azam’s parents and brother toured the US with the Men in Green. Haris Rauf, on the other hand, travelled with his spouse.

Moving forward, the PCB may need to reassess its policies regarding personal trainers and the presence of families during tours to avoid similar disruptions in future tournaments.

These revelations have led to debates on the PCB’s management and the players' commitment, underlining the importance of discipline and team cohesion in achieving success in international cricket tournaments.