The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that it will conduct thorough fitness tests for the nation’s top cricketers on September 7 and 8 in Lahore. These assessments are a key part of the process for awarding new central contracts.
Amid heightened scrutiny following Pakistan’s disappointing 2-0 Test series loss to Bangladesh at home, the PCB is taking decisive steps to address concerns about player fitness and form. The fitness tests, which have raised the passing benchmark to 60% above the international standard of 50% are expected to be challenging.
Cricketers under consideration for central contracts have been directed to report to Lahore by September 6. The tests will include a variety of physical challenges such as bench presses, skinfold measurements, bench pulls, squats, and jumps. Additionally, players must complete a 2-kilometer run in less than 8 minutes and perform six sets of three sprints within 10 seconds, with a 30-second rest between each set.
Following the tests, the PCB will announce the new central contracts, which are expected to be awarded to only 25 players, down from 30 last year. This reduction is aimed at fostering a more competitive environment, ensuring that only the fittest and most dedicated players are selected to represent Pakistan.
The results of these fitness assessments could lead to some players losing their contracts, while emerging talents may be added to the central contract list.
