Key Takeaways
- The Pakistan Cricket Board has ordered national cricketers to play padel during training camps.
- A padel facility has been set up at the National Cricket Academy, eliminating the need for players to travel.
- Padel is intended to improve fitness and fielding skills through a physically demanding sport.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has mandated that national cricketers participate in padel sports during long-duration training camps at the National Cricket Academy. This initiative aims to enhance players' overall fitness, movement, and fielding abilities.
Director High Performance Aqib Javed stated that padel is a simple yet physically demanding sport which can significantly contribute to improving players’ agility and fitness. He explained that previously, cricketers had to travel to play padel, but now they can use the facility at the academy alongside their cricket training.
Under the new plan, cricketers will be required to play padel every second day for approximately 40 minutes. Aqib Javed highlighted that this sport is directly linked to fielding due to its movement requirements and can help players improve their agility and fitness levels.
The academy has also incorporated basketball courts into the training regimen, as playing basketball can benefit cricketers by improving their overall physical condition. Additionally, plans are underway for a game room which will include snooker and other indoor games to provide players with diverse options during extended camps.
Aqib Javed emphasized that athletes around the world do not limit themselves to their main sport and often engage in other activities to improve their fitness and performance. He stated, 'We want to provide our players with an environment and facilities where they can focus on improving every aspect of their game.'
The move by the PCB is part of a broader strategy to maintain high standards among national cricketers during long training periods. By integrating padel into their routine, players are expected to stay physically fit and mentally sharp.
According to Aqib Javed, 'Padel is an excellent sport that can help our players improve their fitness and movement skills. We believe this will ultimately benefit them on the cricket field.'
'We want to provide our players with an environment and facilities where they can focus on improving every aspect of their game.'
Aqib Javed, Director High Performance, Pakistan Cricket Board
