Pakistan launch extended training plan ahead of Australia white-ball series

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board has begun a broader training reset for the national side, with players set to undergo demanding fitness and skills work in hot conditions as part of preparations leading up to September.

According to details, the move comes amid concern within official circles over the team’s prolonged inconsistency across formats and underwhelming results in ICC events. The situation, has become serious enough that Bangladesh has beaten Pakistan in three successive Test matches, prompting fresh discussions among decision-makers.

A think tank has held several meetings to examine the reasons behind the team’s decline. It was observed during those discussions that players remain heavily occupied and are not getting enough time to improve their physical conditioning and technical game. When they are not on national duty, they often feature in different leagues, which officials believe has contributed to the problem.

White-ball camp begins at NCA

As part of the new plan, a seven-day white-ball camp at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore is set to start on Friday and continue until May 21. A total of 28 players have been called up for the camp in preparation for the upcoming series against Australia.

Two Under-19 fast bowlers, Ali Raza and Abdul Subhan, have also been included. Before this, a red-ball camp had already been held at the NCA, with 17 players taking part.

The long-term camp will resume after the ODI series against Australia. During that phase, players will be put through intensive work in warm weather, with fitness expected to remain a central focus.

Concern over Saim Ayub’s form and fitness

Officials are also said to be concerned about Saim Ayub’s recent dip in performance. He has not been included in the current white-ball camp.

Saim sustained a knee injury while fielding during the Pakistan Super League and has yet to make a full recovery. He had been due to play for Kingsmen in the President’s Trophy Grade-II, but remains unavailable because of fitness concerns.

He is expected to join the camp after Eid, when officials intend to work specifically on improving his performances.

Focus on modern demands and younger players

Alongside fitness and technical development, the PCB also wants players to adapt more effectively to the modern requirements of the game, including batting in the powerplay.

The board is also looking to create more openings for emerging cricketers. Strong domestic performances from Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal have further encouraged selectors, while pacer Ali Raza is now seen as a player who could soon be handed an opportunity.

The extended camp structure reflects the board’s attempt to address shortcomings that officials believe have built up over time, with preparations already under way as Pakistan look ahead to the Australia assignment and the months beyond it.