NEW DELHI: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has announced that the national cricket team, known as the Men in Green, will undergo a ten-day training camp with the country's army.
The camp is scheduled to take place from March 25 to April 8, immediately following the conclusion of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Naqvi expressed his hope that the training camp will enhance the players' fitness levels.
During a recent interview with ESPNcricinfo, Naqvi highlighted the need for improved performance from the players. He pointed out that during the matches in Lahore, no sixes were hit into the stands by the Pakistani players.
Naqvi urged the board to formulate a plan to improve the fitness of every player, emphasizing the upcoming matches against New Zealand, Ireland, England, and the T20 World Cup.
To address the issue of limited training time, the PCB chairman disclosed that a training camp will be held at the Kakul military academy. The Pakistan Army will be involved in the players' training, with the aim of providing assistance and support.
This is not the first time that the national cricket team has collaborated with the military for training purposes. Previously, during Misbah-ul-Haq's captaincy, a training camp was organized with the military at the Kakul Academy ahead of a Test series against England.
Naqvi stressed the importance of players prioritizing their national duties over participating in various T20 Leagues around the world. While acknowledging the financial benefits that come with playing in these leagues, Naqvi shared his personal experience of making sacrifices for the greater good. He urged the players to consider Pakistan as their first priority and T20 leagues as secondary.
The PCB chairman assured the players of his full support and mentioned the possibility of strengthening central contracts if needed. However, he emphasized that the players must make themselves available for Pakistan first and foremost. Naqvi concluded by stating that it is unfortunate when money takes precedence over national pride and encouraged the players to align their priorities accordingly.
(With inputs from ANI)
