PCB holds review meeting to discusses team and players' issues, blames previous administration

In a review meeting held by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), fingers were pointed at the previous administration for the injuries sustained by players during the recent Asia Cup. 

PCB Chairman Management Committee, Zaka Ashraf, along with key figures including head coach Mickey Arthur, captain Babar Azam, vice-captain Shadab Khan, and former captains Misbah-ul-Haq and Mohammad Hafeez, gathered to assess the performance of the Pakistan Men’s cricket team in the ACC Asia Cup 2023.

The meeting saw the entire national coaching staff, comprising head coach Grant Bradburn, batting coach Andrew Puttick, and bowling coach Morne Morkel, discussing the team’s recent performance in detail. Dr Sohail Saleem also provided insights into the players’ injuries and the rehabilitation plans moving forward.

In a comprehensive analysis, the group delved into various aspects, including team performance, player fitness, and future strategies aimed at improving the side’s performance. One of the key takeaways from the meeting was the need for a better approach and strategy regarding player workload, as well as the importance of building a stronger bench.

Zaka Ashraf, Chairman Management Committee, emphasised the importance of open discussion and consensus-building, stating, “Discussion revealed that the previous management had allowed a lot of players to play league cricket which caused them to fatigued ahead of their national duty. But going forward we have agreed to form a proactive approach to tackle players' workload and give national duty a priority,” as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.

Ashraf expressed optimism about the team's potential, saying, “Our team is filled with talent, and we believe they can compete and win at the highest level. We have world-class batters and bowlers and are committed to providing them with the necessary support and resources to ensure they are well-equipped ahead of the mega event.”

Chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, who couldn’t attend the meeting due to a medical emergency, met with Zaka Ashraf later to provide his input. Following the review, Inzamam finalised the Pakistan squad for the ICC World Cup, which will be officially announced in a press conference scheduled to take place at 11:15 a.m. at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on Friday morning.