Fitness tests commence across Pakistan under Chairman's directive

Fitness tests commence across Pakistan under Chairman's directive

Asher Butt 

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has, in a significant move to enhance the fitness standards of cricketers, initiated a nationwide fitness test campaign under the directive of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. This ambitious initiative, which began in Lahore, is now being implemented at the district level.

The fitness tests, which are mandatory for all cricketers including Test and international players, consist of several rigorous assessments, including the Yo-Yo test. These tests are a prerequisite for players aspiring to participate in the upcoming inter-district tournament.

Chairman Naqvi has emphasized the importance of fitness at all levels of cricket, announcing the introduction of additional tests at the regional level to further broaden the scope of this initiative. Players must pass these stringent fitness trials to be eligible to join the fitness camps.

In the inter-district tournament, 22 players have been selected based on their performance in these fitness tests. These players will undergo focused training on fielding, fitness, and technique in the upcoming camps.

Over the next 45 days, 101 training camps will be set up nationwide, marking the first time in Pakistan's history that fitness camps are being organized at the district level. This move demonstrates the PCB's commitment to making fitness a top priority.

Chairman Naqvi has assured that practical measures are in place to ensure complete transparency and merit in both the fitness trials and the subsequent camps. He emphasized the ongoing nature of these trials, stating, "Fitness is the top priority, and there will be fitness trials at every level. Practical measures are being taken to ensure complete transparency and merit in the fitness trials and camps. The series of fitness trials will continue regularly."

Director of Domestic Cricket Khurram Niazi has also approved a comprehensive plan to improve fitness across all levels. Players who fail the fitness tests will face consequences, including being dropped from both national and regional teams. This underscores the PCB's dedication to maintaining high fitness standards as a crucial component of player performance and team success.

The PCB's nationwide fitness test campaign, initiated by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, represents a landmark effort to elevate the fitness standards of Pakistani cricketers. With rigorous testing and transparent processes, the PCB aims to ensure that only the fittest players represent the country, thereby enhancing the overall quality and competitiveness of Pakistan cricket.