Mohsin Naqvi stresses strict action against grouping within team

The chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, chaired a crucial three-hour meeting on Monday to address the performance and discipline of the Pakistan cricket team.

The meeting resulted in several key decisions aimed at enhancing the team’s performance and unity.

Naqvi emphasized the importance of team cohesion and discipline, stating unequivocally that there will be no tolerance for groupings within the squad.

“Those making groups have no place in the team,” he asserted, adding that any recommendations, including his own, for players who violate team discipline will not be accepted.

Naqvi stressed that strict action will be taken against those involved in grouping activities, and unity must be visible among team members.

Highlighting his commitment to discipline, Naqvi declared a zero-tolerance policy towards any breaches. “Discipline is non-negotiable, and there will be strict consequences for those who fail to adhere to it,” he stated.

In addition to addressing discipline issues, the PCB chief also announced that a fitness test will be conducted for all players after every three months. This move aims to ensure that all team members maintain optimal fitness levels, which is critical for peak performance.

Moreover, the PCB chief emphasized the importance of domestic cricket, mandating that all players participate in domestic competitions to stay in form and improve their skills. This decision aims to strengthen the domestic cricket infrastructure and provide a larger pool of talent for national team selection.

The PCB also decided not to reduce the central contract amounts for the time being. However, these contracts will be reviewed annually based on the players’ performance and fitness levels. This approach is intended to motivate players to maintain high standards throughout the year.

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Earlier, the PCB announced a new policy limiting the issuance of No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) for national cricketers participating in various leagues.

Following a meeting chaired by PCB Chairman Naqvi, along with head coaches and the international department, it was decided that players participating in all three formats — Tests, ODIs, and T20s — will not receive NOCs for league participation this year.

This decision comes as Pakistan’s cricket calendar remains packed until May next year, with a total of nine Tests, 14 ODIs, and nine T20 matches scheduled, starting from the upcoming series against Bangladesh leading up to the Champions Trophy in 2025.