Pakistan Test cricket vice-captain Saud Shakeel has expressed concern over the team’s declining fitness level ahead of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, which begins on August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Saud Shakeel revealed that the Men in Green have fallen behind other top-flight international teams not only in terms of fitness but also in terms of skills across formats over the past few months ahead of the home Tests against Bangladesh. This deficiency had a significant impact on their performance, prompting widespread criticism from fans and pundits as well.
However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made efforts to address this issue, including introducing intensive fitness exercises in collaboration with the military. Despite these rigorous measures, the Pakistan cricket team struggled to make consistent improvements in its fitness standards.
Pakistan’s continued struggle has led to growing frustration among fans and former cricketers, who have singled out several players, including wicketkeeper-batsman Azam Khan and white-ball captain Babar Azam, for sub-par fitness.
Saud Shakeel, meanwhile, has acknowledged the importance of fitness, as he has acknowledged a noticeable decline in the fitness level of some players in recent months. However, the vice-captain has stressed that the team is now fully committed to achieving and maintaining optimal fitness.
Players accepted their low physical level: Saud Shakeel
He revealed that the team is making an extra effort to improve their fitness and that it is their top priority. Saud Shakeel was quoted by Cricket Pakistan as saying, “To be honest, the fitness level of some of our players has dropped in the last few months and they have accepted it as well. We are currently working hard on our fitness level and we hope to improve it in the future as well.”
Shakeel also expressed his deep passion for the role of captain and said that he has always enjoyed leadership. He feels privileged to have been entrusted with the responsibility of serving as the vice-captain of the Pakistan Test team. Shakeel also emphasised his commitment to ensure that his contributions with the bat always benefit the cause of the team.
Mohammad Hafeez criticises Azam Khan’s poor physical condition
Former Pakistan captain and team manager Mohammad Hafeez also echoed the concerns expressed, particularly over Azam Khan’s fitness. Hafeez insisted that Pakistan players must improve their fitness if they are to compete effectively against the world’s best and improve their performance on the field.
Hafeez told the Times of India: “I went to him and asked him why he was not following the plan and the role assigned to him. He had no answer, he said he had tried his best but could not. That is unprofessionalism.”
