PCB Makes a Bold Move to Prepare the Team for India Clash

ISLAMABAd: Innovation has been the name of the game since Mike Hesson took over the Pakistan cricket team’s coaching duties, and that trajectory is set to continue as the PCB takes a proactive step to sharpen the squad’s mental edge ahead of the rematch against India, by enlisting the services of a sports psychologist.

According to sources in local media, the PCB has confirmed that Dr. Raheel has officially joined the national team setup in Dubai as a sports psychologist, where the squad is preparing for what could be a defining moment in their Asia Cup campaign.

The decision comes amid growing pressure and expectations surrounding the Pakistan-India rivalry, which often transcends cricket and tests players beyond the physical realm. With emotions running high and the margin for error razor-thin, the PCB’s move signals a renewed focus on mental conditioning and performance clarity.

Sports psychologists have been employed by teams across the globe to help athletes cope with the mental pressure of carrying the hopes of millions in competitive arenas. The PCB itself has prior experience in this area, having previously acquired the services of Dr. Maqbool “Max” Babri in 2023.

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The upcoming contest between India and Pakistan will be the second meeting between the arch-rivals in the tournament, with players still feeling the fallout from the previous encounter. The match is set to take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, where thousands are expected to turn up and millions more will be glued to their screens, adding even more pressure on the players.

With the psychological boost now in place and the team rallying behind a shared purpose, Pakistan will be hoping to channel focus into firepower when they take the field against India.