LAHORE: In a concerning development for Pakistan cricket, eight out of twelve players of national team, failed to pass their fitness tests, according to sources close to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The fitness tests were reportedly conducted at the National Cricket Academy, where players were required to complete a two-kilometre run within eight minutes. Sources reveal that all eight players who retook the test failed to meet the required 80% benchmark.
This setback comes at a crucial time for Pakistani cricket, as the issue of central contracts is already facing delays due to these fitness concerns. The PCB is expected to conduct fitness tests of another four or five who participated in the Champions Trophy final later this week. These players have been given a few days of rest before their assessments.
The failure of so many key players to meet the fitness standards raises questions about the team’s physical preparedness for upcoming international competitions. It also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the PCB in maintaining high fitness standards across the national squad.
Cricket analysts suggest that this development could potentially impact team selection for upcoming series and may lead to a renewed focus on fitness regimes within the national cricket setup.
The PCB has not yet released an official statement regarding these results or any potential consequences for the players who failed to meet the fitness criteria. However, it is expected that the Board will address this issue in the coming days, possibly outlining plans to improve the overall fitness levels of the national team.