Saud Shakeel breaks silence on Babar Azam-starrer Pakistan team's fitness crisis, demands immediate action

Saud Shakeel, vice-captain of the Pakistan cricket team for Test cricket, has raised concerns about the team's declining fitness levels ahead of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting on August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Saud Shakeel revealed that the Men in Green have lagged behind other top international teams, not only in fitness but also in skill across all formats over the past few months ahead of the home Tests against Bangladesh. This shortfall had a significant impact on their performance, sparking widespread criticism from fans and experts as well.

Pakistan's fitness struggles under the radar as Saud Shakeel demands immediate improvement

However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made efforts to address this issue, including introducing intense fitness drills in collaboration with the military. Despite these rigorous measures, the Pakistan cricket team struggled to achieve consistent improvements in their fitness standards.

Pakistan’s ongoing struggle has led to growing frustration among the fans and former cricketers, who have pointed fingers at several players, including wicketkeeper-batter Azam Khan and Babar Azam, white-ball captain, for their below-par fitness.

Meanwhile, Saud Shakeel has acknowledged the importance of physical conditioning, as he acknowledged a noticeable decline in the fitness levels of some players in recent months. However, the vice-captain has emphasized that the team is now fully committed to achieving and maintaining peak fitness.

Players accepted their poor fitness level: Saud Shakeel

He revealed that the team is putting in extra effort to enhance their fitness, and it is their top priority. Saud Shakeel was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan: “To be honest, the fitness levels of some of our players went down in the last couple of months, and they accepted it too. We're currently working hard on our fitness levels, and we are hoping to make it better in the future as well.”

Shakeel also expressed his deep passion for the role of captain, saying how much he has always enjoyed the leadership. He feels privileged to have been entrusted with the responsibility of serving as the vice-captain of Pakistan's Test team. Shakeel also emphasized his commitment to making sure that his contributions with the bat always benefit the team’s cause.

Mohammad Hafeez slams Azam Khan's poor fitness

Adding to the chorus of concern, former Pakistan captain and team director Mohammad Hafeez has also voiced his disappointment, particularly with the fitness levels of Azam Khan. He insisted that Pakistan’s players need to step up their fitness game if they are to compete effectively against the best in the world with improved performances on the field.

Hafeez was quoted as saying by the Times of India: “So, I went to talk to him and asked him why he didn't follow the plan and role given to him. He didn't have any answer, saying he tried his best but couldn't. This is unprofessionalism.”