PCB to subject Pakistan team to series of rigorous fitness assessments ahead of dicey Bangladesh series

The Bangladesh A side was scheduled to visit Pakistan for two four-day matches and three fifty-over games against the Pakistan Shaheens. However, due to domestic upheaval, these fixtures have been canceled.

Despite the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Bangladesh's participation in the scheduled forthcoming two-match Test series, the Pakistan Cricket Board has resolved to conduct a series of rigorous fitness assessments for potential participants, including centrally contracted players.

For those unacquainted, political unrest is currently affecting major areas of Bangladesh, raising uncertainty about whether they will travel to Pakistan for the series commencing on August 21 or host the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, which is scheduled to start on October 3.

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Despite these challenges, the PCB is set to proceed with fitness assessments. According to Geo News, players are scheduled to convene on August 9 to undergo a series of five to six exacting fitness tests. Last month, following their exit from the T20 World Cup, Pakistan Cricket issued a directive emphasizing that fitness would be weighted as heavily as batting or bowling performance in the selection criteria.

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According to the PCB, the fitness assessments are of paramount importance. The PCB is currently withholding central contracts, pending the outcome of these evaluations. Should the previously contracted players fail to meet the required standards, their contracts may not be renewed.

According to the original itinerary, Bangladesh was scheduled to face Pakistan in the first Test in Rawalpindi and the second Test in Karachi. However, these plans have now been suspended, and the outcome remains uncertain. Future developments will depend on the decisions made by both boards.

Should the series be canceled, both teams will face a significant delay before their next international engagements. Pakistan is scheduled to embark on a tour of England for a three-match Test series in October, while Bangladesh will visit India for a two-match Test series in September, followed by a three-match T20I series.