The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to implement rigorous fitness tests before finalizing central contracts for the upcoming year. This assessment will apply to both current contract holders and other top performers from domestic and international circuits.
Scheduled between September 6 and 8 in Lahore, the fitness tests will be overseen by white-ball head coach Gary Kirsten, along with the team’s physiotherapist and trainer. Following the tests, players will head to Faisalabad for the Champions Cup.
A PCB insider revealed that the fitness assessments will play a critical role in determining which players will receive central contracts this year, with performance also being a key factor.
Kirsten and fellow coach Jason Gillespie have emphasized that fitness will be the primary criterion for selection. Gillespie was dissatisfied with the fitness levels of some players during the recent Test series against Bangladesh, noting that their endurance waned during critical sessions,
the source added.
Kirsten echoed these concerns, discussing fitness levels with selectors and PCB officials. The tests will include comprehensive evaluations such as gym training, stamina and endurance runs, and the Yo-Yo test.
Babar Azam Falls Out of ICC Test Top Ten Rankings
Currently, 27 players hold central contracts, but the PCB is likely to reduce this number based on the team’s overall performance over the past year. Pakistan’s recent 2-0 Test series loss to Bangladesh has drawn significant criticism, increasing the pressure on both players and board officials.
