60% Benchmark Set for Central Contracts, Pakistan’s Cricketers Survive the Toughest Fitness Tests

Pakistani cricketers, including members of the Test squad and centrally contracted players, are preparing for a stringent round of fitness tests scheduled in Lahore on September 7 and 9. These assessments, mandated by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), have become a cause of concern for many players due to the demanding nature of the requirements.

The fitness tests are a prerequisite for securing central contracts, with the PCB setting the fitness benchmark at 60%, significantly higher than the international standard of 50%. The tests will include exercises such as bench press, skin fold measurements, bench pull squats, and jumping drills.

One of the most challenging aspects of the test is the 2-kilometer trial run, which must be completed within 8 minutes. Additionally, players are required to complete three runs within 10 seconds, repeated six times, with only a 30-second break between each lap. This rigorous test schedule has added to the stress and pressure on the players.

The PCB intends to announce central contracts based on the results of these fitness tests, with up to 25 players expected to be included in the contracts. As the test dates approach, players are intensifying their preparations, understanding that their performance will directly impact their inclusion in the central contracts.