(Source X)
Saud Shakeel, vice-captain of Pakistan’s Test cricket team, has expressed worries about the team’s waning fitness levels as they prepare for the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh, beginning August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Shakeel noted that the team has fallen behind other leading international sides in both fitness and skill in recent months, a deficiency that has notably affected their performance and drawn considerable criticism from fans and experts alike.
Saud Shakeel calls for swift improvements as Pakistan’s fitness issues go unnoticed.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has attempted to tackle the fitness issue by implementing rigorous training programs with military assistance. Despite these efforts, the team has struggled to show consistent progress.
This ongoing challenge has fueled frustration among fans and former cricketers, who have criticized players like wicketkeeper-batter Azam Khan and white-ball captain Babar Azam for their inadequate fitness.
Saud Shakeel has recognized the decline in some players’ fitness and stressed the team’s dedication to achieving and maintaining top physical condition.
Players accepted their poor fitness level: Saud Shakeel
He disclosed that the team is making additional efforts to improve their fitness, prioritizing it above all else. Saud Shakeel mentioned this in a statement to Cricket Pakistan: “To be honest, the fitness levels of some of our players went down in the last couple of months, and they accepted it too. We’re currently working hard on our fitness levels, and we are hoping to make it better in the future as well.”
Shakeel also conveyed his profound enthusiasm for the captaincy role, sharing how much he has always relished the leadership responsibilities. He considers it an honor to serve as the vice-captain of Pakistan’s Test team and highlighted his dedication to ensuring that his batting efforts consistently support the team’s objectives.
Mohammad Hafeez criticizes Azam Khan’s lack of fitness.
Former Pakistan captain and team director Mohammad Hafeez has joined the growing chorus of concern, specifically criticizing Azam Khan’s fitness levels. He stressed that Pakistan’s players must elevate their fitness standards to compete effectively against the world’s top teams and enhance their on-field performances.
Hafeez was quoted as saying by the Times of India: “So, I went to talk to him and asked him why he didn’t follow the plan and role given to him. He didn’t have any answer, saying he tried his best but couldn’t. This is unprofessionalism.”
