Naqvi seeks former players’ advice to revitalise Pakistan cricket

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with former cricketers to discuss the future of cricket in Pakistan.

Naqvi convened an important meeting with former cricketers and the discussions centered on the challenges and strategies for improving the performance of Pakistani players. The key areas of discussions were fitness requirement and talent and combination. A detailed plan was formulated to enhance the players’ batting and bowling skills, with a special focus on fielding improvements. It was decided that players’ inclusion in the team would be contingent on their fitness levels. While acknowledging the abundant talent within the Pakistani team, the need for a better team combination was agreed upon. The aim of the Chairman’s meeting with several former cricketers was to gather their insights and recommendations for strengthening domestic cricket and enhancing the national team’s performance.

Former cricketers provided suggestions to fortify domestic cricket and proposed conducting four-day matches and U-19 tournaments. They also recommended holding cricket tournaments during the summer season in addition to the winter season. There was a consensus on improving the infrastructure of domestic cricket, with plans to hold the summer cricket season in Abbottabad or Hunza.

Naqvi also highlighted the challenges posed by increased commercialism, which has led to a lack of departmental investment in cricket. However, he assured that the PCB is taking practical steps to secure and improve cricket grounds.

“Inshallah, we will make cricket better from the grassroots level with everyone’s consultation,” Naqvi affirmed, noting all suggestions and promising the implementation of feasible recommendations.