pcb introduces comprehensive
| | |

PCB introduces comprehensive fitness policy for do…

 

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has introduced a comprehensive domestic cricket fitness policy for the 2026-27 season, making physical fitness a key requirement for players representing regional, departmental, district, and zonal teams across the country.

The newly announced policy has been designed to improve players’ overall fitness standards and ensure they are better prepared for the physical demands of modern cricket. Covering athletes from junior age-group competitions to first-class domestic cricket, the framework aims to establish a consistent and measurable fitness system throughout Pakistan’s domestic structure.

The fitness programme has been developed by PCB Director of Sports and Exercise Medicine Javed Mughal. It follows a structured two-tier model that has been designed to align with international cricket standards while remaining practical, reliable, and easy to implement across different levels of the domestic game. The testing procedures have been created to produce consistent and repeatable results, allowing coaches and trainers to accurately monitor players’ physical progress.

Under the new system, Tier 1 will apply to players representing the country’s 20 regional teams, eight departmental first-class sides, and more than 25 Grade-II departmental teams. These players will be required to complete 11 separate fitness tests, providing a total of 17 scoring opportunities during the assessment process.

Tier 2 has been introduced for players competing in senior district cricket, U19 district teams, and regional U17 and U15 squads. Participants in this category will undergo eight different fitness tests, offering a maximum of 12 scoring opportunities.

The PCB has also established a clear scoring system to determine whether a player passes or fails the assessment. In Tier 1, players may receive up to seven red scores and still meet the required fitness standard. However, recording eight or more red scores will result in a failed assessment. Those who fail will be allowed one opportunity to retake the test.

Similarly, Tier 2 players will fail the assessment if they receive six or more red scores. The board hopes that the grading system will encourage players to maintain high fitness standards while also identifying areas requiring improvement.

Fitness monitoring will not end after the initial assessment. Players who successfully complete the testing process will undergo another round of fitness evaluations approximately six months later. The purpose of the follow-up assessment is to measure each player’s progress and ensure that fitness levels continue to improve throughout the season.

According to the PCB, every player is expected to demonstrate measurable improvement compared to their initial baseline results. The board believes continuous assessment will promote long-term physical development rather than one-time preparation for testing.

The policy also outlines the procedure for players who do not meet the required benchmarks. Instead of repeating only the failed components, any player who fails the assessment will be required to complete the entire fitness testing programme again. This approach is intended to ensure overall physical readiness rather than focusing on individual weaknesses.

The responsibility for conducting the assessments will rest with PCB-approved strength and conditioning coaches. These coaches will supervise fitness testing at every level of domestic cricket and submit the results to the National Cricket Academy along with the PCB’s Medical and Sports Science Department for evaluation and record-keeping.

With this initiative, the PCB aims to strengthen the fitness culture within domestic cricket, enhance player performance, and create a stronger pathway for athletes aspiring to represent Pakistan at the international level.

Similar Posts

  • |

    Human rights organizations file federal lawsuit challenging Trump administration sanctions on ICC

    Four prominent non-governmental organizations filed a joint federal lawsuit contesting executive sanctions imposed by the Trump administration on the International Criminal Court, arguing the penalties unlawfully disrupt global war crimes prosecutions. The legal challenge, brought by Human Rights Watch, the Center for Constitutional Rights, the Open Society Institute, and the American Friends Service Committee, targets an executive order enacted in February 2025. The presidential directive established financial sanctions and travel bans against ICC officials, judges, and affiliated advocacy groups involved in investigating alleged war crimes in Palestinian territory, including cases involving senior Israeli officials. Attorneys representing the civil rights organizations contend that the broad scope of the sanctions violates First Amendment protections regarding free speech and association. The suit asserts that the threat of severe civil and criminal penalties has effectively forced US-based legal advocates to suspend representation of victims before the tribunal, while halting formal collaborations with sanctioned international rights groups. The filing marks the latest in a series of legal challenges against the administration’s broader push to limit the jurisdiction of the Hague-based court. Representatives for the US Department of State and Department of Justice did not immediately issue formal statements regarding the lawsuit.

  • |

    Zelensky accuses Iran of direct role in Russia’s war against Ukraine

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Iran of directly participating in the war against Ukraine through its continuous military support for Russia. Speaking on potential threats following a recent incident involving an Iranian vessel, Zelensky urged caution to prevent the opening of another front while stressing that Ukraine must remain prepared for all scenarios. He stated that Tehran became a direct participant by supplying Moscow with thousands of attack drones from the outset of the full-scale invasion and subsequently granting licences for local production. He added that both Iran and North Korea have effectively attacked Ukraine by supplying Russia with weaponry, including missiles, drones, and artillery ammunition. In response, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei rejected assertions that Tehran had sought negotiations with the United States to end hostilities, asserting that Iran will independently determine matters of war and peace. Baghaei added that Washington had initially expected an Iranian surrender within days of commencing attacks, yet months later, the United States continues to face severe challenges in the region.

  • 10 police personnel martyred in Hangu terror attack laid to rest

    HANGU: Ten police personnel, including DSP City Diyar Khan, who embraced martyrdom in the terrorist attack on the Khazina Banda Check Post in Hangu, were laid to rest with full state honours on Wednesday. The funeral prayers were offered at the Police Lines, Hangu, where senior police officers, government officials, fellow policemen and local dignitaries paid tribute to the fallen heroes. Commandant Police Training College Hangu, Shaukat Abbas, Deputy Commissioner Basir Ali Rehman, senior police officials and a large number of citizens attended the funeral. Floral wreaths were laid on the coffins of the martyrs in recognition of their supreme sacrifice. After the funeral, the bodies were dispatched to their native towns for burial with full official honours. According to police officials, terrorists belonging to the banned Fitna Al-Khawarij launched a coordinated assault on the Khazina Banda Check Post late Tuesday night. The attackers reportedly used quadcopters before laying siege to the check post. Police personnel stationed at the post resisted the assault bravely and continued fighting until the last moment. Upon receiving information about the attack, DSP City Diyar Khan led a reinforcement party comprising personnel from the Elite Force, RRF and Al-Barq Force. However, the police convoy was ambushed near the Khazina Banda Bridge, where heavily armed militants had already taken positions. Despite the surprise attack, the police fought courageously in defence of the country. The attack claimed the lives of 10 police personnel, including DSP Diyar Khan, while around 30 others were injured. Police officials said that during the exchange of fire, 12 to 15 terrorists were killed or wounded, and their accomplices reportedly carried the casualties towards the Zargari area. Following the incident, police and security forces launched a large scale search operation in the area. Funeral prayers for the martyrs were also held in their respective hometowns. Police Constable Nadeem was laid to rest in Sheikhan, while Constable Sanaullah was buried in Lachi, both with full state honours. Smartly turned out police contingents presented ceremonial salutes, and senior police officers, political leaders, social figures and hundreds of residents attended the funerals. Similarly, the funeral prayer of martyred police constable Abdul Saeed, a resident of Lower Dir, was offered in his native village Katan Pyan. District Police Officer Lower Dir Syed Talal Ahmad Shah and other police officers attended the ceremony and paid tribute to the martyr, assuring his family that the sacrifices of police personnel would never be forgotten. Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi paid a brief visit to Hangu and stayed at the Police Club, where he offered prayers for the departed souls of the martyrs and the early recovery of the injured personnel. However, the Chief Minister left Hangu without visiting the injured policemen undergoing treatment in hospital. His decision not to meet the wounded officers has drawn criticism and raised questions in various circles, as several injured personnel remain admitted to hospitals following the attack. In contrast, Additional IG Elite Force Muhammad Ali Gandapur visited the hospital to inquire about the health of the injured policemen. He was accompanied by Regional Commander Elite Hafiz Nazir and DSP CTD Imranuddin. Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed, Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah, and Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Tariq Saeed Marwat also visited the hospital and met the injured officers. Speaking to the media, IG Zulfiqar Hameed said the police fought the terrorists with exceptional courage for several hours despite facing drone attacks. He stated that 12 to 14 terrorists were killed during the operation and confirmed that all injured policemen were in stable condition and receiving the best available medical treatment. The IG announced that recommendations would be forwarded for gallantry awards, including the Tamgha-e-Shujaat, for the martyrs and other officers who displayed extraordinary bravery during the operation. He vowed that those responsible for the attack would be brought to justice. Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah praised the courage of the police force, saying their sacrifice demonstrated their unwavering commitment to protecting the people despite grave danger. He also appreciated the district administration and hospital management for ensuring timely medical treatment for the injured. Special Assistant Tariq Saeed Marwat reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting the police force financially and administratively. He said the nature of terrorism had evolved with the use of drones, adding that the government was working to equip the police with anti drone technology and other modern capabilities to effectively counter emerging security threats.

  • | | |

    AJK fully prepared for polls as Mirpur voting begi…

    MUZAFFARABAD, July 26: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) authorities have completed preparations for the first phase of the general elections, with polling scheduled to begin in the Mirpur division on Monday. AJK Chief Secretary Khushal Khan said all necessary arrangements had been finalised for the elections. He assured voters that the process would be conducted peacefully, transparently and fairly. Speaking at a joint press conference with Election Commission Secretary Raja Mohammad Shakeel Khan, the chief secretary said the formal election process would begin on July 27 in accordance with the Constitution. He said polling material had already been sent to returning officers and all state institutions were ready to perform their responsibilities during the elections. Around 17,000 security personnel have been deployed to maintain peace during polling. Police contingents from all four provinces will also assist AJK Police with security arrangements. Khushal warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone attempting to disturb law and order or interfere with the electoral process. Authorities are also monitoring social media activity ahead of polling. The chief secretary said action would be taken against individuals involved in spreading misleading propaganda aimed at creating confusion or disrupting the elections. Election Commission Secretary Raja Mohammad Shakeel Khan said preparations for the first phase in Mirpur division had been completed. Polling material has already been delivered to the relevant polling stations. Around 22,000 election staff have been assigned duties for the voting process. Khan said election personnel had received training to ensure that polling is conducted efficiently and transparently. He said the chief election commissioner recently visited Mirpur and expressed satisfaction with the arrangements. Police, Rangers and the Federal Constabulary have also been placed on high alert. Security officials will remain deployed to protect polling stations and voters. Khan urged citizens to participate in the elections. He described voting as one of the most important democratic rights available to the public. He also warned voters about misleading material circulating online. According to him, old videos related to election boycotts were being reshared on social media to create confusion. The election official said no major untoward incident had been reported during the campaign. He added that political parties and candidates had accepted the election code of conduct. He urged voters to ignore rumours and uncertainty and cast their votes for their preferred candidates. The first phase of the AJK general elections will be held across Mirpur division on July 27. The AJK Information Department has separately urged media organisations and journalists to exercise extra caution during election coverage. It asked them to publish only verified and balanced information, particularly during polling, counting and the announcement of results. The department also warned against sharing unverified material that could create panic, confuse voters or affect public order during the sensitive election period.

  • |

    Saif Ali Khan shares behind-the-scenes details from Aap Ki Izzat

    Pakistani actor Saif Ali Khan, who gained recognition after appearing in the reality show Tamasha 4, is gradually making his mark in the television industry. A software engineer by profession, Saif has successfully balanced his career with his passion for acting and singing. He has also built a strong fan following on social media, where more than 466,000 people follow his updates. After making his acting debut in Aap Ki Izzat, the emerging star is now preparing for two more television projects. In a recent television interview, Saif Ali Khan spoke about his experience of playing a vegetable vendor in Aap Ki Izzat and revealed interesting details about filming one of the drama’s most talked-about train sequences alongside Urwa Hocane. Although his character appears to be an ordinary vegetable seller at first glance, Saif explained that the role carries much greater importance within the storyline. He said that the drama mainly revolves around four central characters, including Beena, Tabish, the character played by Sania Saeed, and his own role. According to the actor, he immediately understood the significance of the character after reading the script and believed it was much more than what audiences would initially assume. Saif added that viewers will gradually discover the true impact of his character as the story unfolds. He expressed confidence that every appearance of his character serves a meaningful purpose and contributes directly to the development of the plot. The actor also discussed his on-screen chemistry with Urwa Hocane, whose character Beena shares an important connection with his role. While fans have been curious about the direction of their relationship in the drama, Saif chose not to reveal any major details. He said he wanted audiences to experience the story without spoilers, adding that revealing too much in advance would take away the excitement. According to Saif, the relationship between Beena and Behram has several unexpected twists, and viewers will have to continue watching the drama to see how their journey unfolds. Speaking about one of the drama’s visually striking moments, Saif shared behind-the-scenes details about the train sequence that has attracted viewers’ attention. He revealed that the sequence was filmed during January under extremely cold weather conditions, making it one of the more challenging shoots for the cast and crew. The actor explained that although a real train and an actual railway station were used for filming, the train itself was stationary during production. Some portions of the sequence were later enhanced using chroma technology to create the illusion of movement and make the scenes appear more realistic on screen. Saif also praised the production team for their professionalism and dedication throughout the filming process. He credited the crew for carefully executing the technically demanding sequence and ensuring that the final result looked convincing despite the challenges involved. With Aap Ki Izzat introducing him to television audiences and more projects already in the pipeline, Saif Ali Khan continues to establish himself as one of Pakistan’s promising emerging actors. His latest comments have given fans an interesting glimpse into the hard work that goes into bringing dramatic scenes to life while also increasing anticipation for the upcoming episodes of the drama.

  • | |

    Senate debates Imran Khan’s health after opposit…

    The Senate held a detailed discussion on the health of PTI founder Imran Khan. The discussion was held after a demand by Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas. The Senate proceedings were also suspended to take up the issue. Speaking in the Senate, Raja Nasir Abbas said Imran Khan was facing punishment for crimes he had not committed. He described the former prime minister’s health as a highly sensitive matter. The opposition leader urged the government to show restraint. He said political differences should not lead to anyone being subjected to unnecessary suffering. Raja Nasir Abbas said the government should focus on resolving the country’s problems instead of pursuing political revenge. He also questioned whether the priority was to fix the system or settle political scores. He demanded that Imran Khan be allowed to meet his personal doctors. He said access to proper medical care was essential, particularly because of concerns about the PTI founder’s health. The opposition leader also called for Imran Khan to be shifted to a hospital if necessary. He demanded that a meeting with him should be allowed. Raja Nasir Abbas said such measures could help prevent a serious situation in the future. He stressed that the authorities should take the health concerns seriously. He also called for politicians to be given an opportunity to run the country. He said political issues should be resolved through political means. The opposition leader also raised the issue of PTI women who are currently in prison. He called for greater attention to their situation. During the debate, Raja Nasir Abbas addressed PML-N Senator Rana Sanaullah. He said Rana Sanaullah knew that the cases against him had not been filed by politicians. Rana Sanaullah responded by asking Raja Nasir Abbas who had filed the case against him. The exchange highlighted the political tensions between the government and opposition benches in the Senate. The debate also brought renewed attention to Imran Khan’s health and the opposition’s demand for greater access to medical care and personal doctors. Opposition lawmakers have continued to raise concerns about the PTI founder’s condition and have called for his medical needs to be addressed without political considerations.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *