PCB chairman urges players to put national duty first

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during his first interaction with leading Pakistan team aspirants Tuesday conveyed a clear message, saying that playing for the country and keeping the national cricket’s image at the highest esteem should be their top priority.

Naqvi said that he wouldn’t point fingers at anyone but would ensure that Pakistan and Pakistan team should be the top priority for all those who have already established themselves at the international level.

“I would not get involved as to what has gone wrong and who was at fault but would ensure from here on that every member from the top aspirants must devote fully to the national cause. Pakistan should come first. County’s cricket requires full energy from each of the contenders. I will not bar anyone from playing international leagues or earning money but not at the cost of national cricket. No private ventures will be allowed at the expense of national cricket. If you have free time you can pursue private cricket but the best efforts for the country’s cricket and its image should be ensured at all cost.”

The PCB chief while addressing a group of players said that anyone from the present audience can represent the country at any time.

“I will also ensure that only top performers at domestic cricket and those representing the country at different levels should be allowed to represent Pakistan. It is not important that how old and experienced you are the criteria is performance backed by fitness and the right attitude which guarantee your best shot for the country. No favouritism will be allowed from any quarters.”

Naqvi who has recently been elected as the PCB chairman for the next three years in the office met every player individually.

“I am available to you anytime barring important meetings. I am ready to listen to your side of point of view. We have a mission to pursue and that is to make the Pakistan team one of the best outfits in the world. Winning and winning should be players’ moto. If the team goes down fighting, it does not matter what matters is the best efforts from each of member of the playing XI. There should not be any inner politics as we all are there to build the image of the country and the country’s cricket. When you play as one unit, the success will be yours. What the nation and fans expect from you is to give your hundred percent on the field.”

Naqvi contemplated that the best coaching staff would be deputed with the team. “We are in the process of hiring the best available coaching and support staff for the national team.” Another area of concern that Naqvi pointed out during his interaction with players was the fitness issue.

“I want leading cricketers and those pursuing to get into the national team to attain a fitness level worthy of a top athlete. We would take all possible steps to improve the fitness level.” The PCB chairman announced that a fitness training camp will be established in Kakul (Abbottabad) from March 25 to April 8 with the main aim to improve the fitness level ahead of the tough international commitments.”

The PCB boss also revealed that the up-gradation of stadiums and establishment of academies will be among his priorities. “We want to invest cricket’s finances in cricket and on the up-gradation of structure. Investing in players and their development will be on the top of our agenda.”

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