After Pakistan’s historical defeat in the T20 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken 5 remarkable steps, some of which are expected to benefit Pakistan Cricket in the long term.
Number 1: Player NOCs
The PCB has decided not to give No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to key players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Shah Afridi for participating in T20 leagues. These players were supposed to play in the USA’s Major League Cricket (MLC) and Canada’s Global T20 (GLT20). The PCB has shown strictness in providing NOCs, especially for players with central contracts. The main reason given by the PCB is the upcoming tight schedule. However, the real reason is the disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup. The PCB wants these key players to focus on domestic and national duties instead.
Number 2: New Coaches
Pakistan’s cricket is far behind in adopting modern trends. Many believe that Pakistan is still playing cricket from 20 years ago. To change this defensive and outdated approach, Jason Gillespie has been appointed as the red-ball coach and Gary Kirsten as the white-ball coach. Both coaches have vast experience in world cricket. Jason Gillespie has been coaching in England’s county cricket for the past 10 years, while Gary Kirsten is the coach under whom India became the ODI World Champion after 28 years.
Jason Gillespie: “I want people to be able to say, yes, this is the style of cricket Pakistan is playing.”
Number 3: Mega Investments
It is well-known that Pakistan’s current cricket grounds do not meet international standards. In this aspect, we are even behind Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. The PCB has decided to spend 12.8 billion rupees on upgrading cricket grounds and 4.5 billion rupees on domestic cricket to improve the overall standard of Pakistan cricket. The upgradation includes three major grounds: Lahore, Karachi, and Pindi stadiums, which might host all matches of the Champion Trophy 2025. Additionally, 12 more grounds will be activated for domestic cricket. Moreover, funds have been allocated for ground staff working on 100 grounds across the country.
For women’s cricket, the funds have been increased by 340 times as well.
Also Read
The Fastest Bowlers in international Cricket: Top 10 Fast Bowlers in Cricket
Number 4: Pitches
The condition of pitches in Pakistan has been a topic of much debate. Unfortunately, Pakistan is also far behind in this regard. The previous PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja focused on drop-in pitches, but luckily, this idea was shelved with his departure. To address the issue of poor pitches, PCB has hired Tony Hemming an Australian curator with 40 years of experience. It is hoped that the pitches will now be world-class.
Number 5: Revival of Fitness Test
Poor fitness and fielding of players have played a significant role in Pakistan’s failures. You might have heard a lot about the poor fitness of players recently. The main reason for this is the absence of fitness tests. The Yo-Yo test, considered the standard for cricket fitness worldwide, was reportedly suspended for quite some time, resulting in players not being in proper shape. According to PCB’s new fitness plan, every cricketer will now have to pass an international-level fitness test. For this purpose, the Yo-Yo test has been reinstated.
By taking these steps, the PCB is showing its commitment to improving Pakistan cricket. These initiatives are aimed at addressing both immediate issues and long-term goals, ensuring that the team and infrastructure are well-prepared for future challenges. With dedicated efforts in improving player fitness, coaching, facilities, and domestic cricket, the PCB is laying the foundation for a stronger, more competitive national team. It is hoped that these measures will bring about the desired transformation, leading to better performances and achievements on the international stage.
