The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has introduced padel as a compulsory activity during long-duration training camps for national cricketers. The move comes after new padel courts were established at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to support player fitness and overall development.
According to the PCB, the new padel facilities will allow players to train and enjoy the sport without leaving the academy premises. Officials believe the initiative will create a more productive environment during extended training camps while improving players’ physical conditioning.
The newly built courts are part of the board’s efforts to modernize training facilities at the National Cricket Academy. Players previously had to travel outside the academy to play the sport. With the new setup, they now have direct access to the courts throughout their training schedule.
Speaking to Geo News, High Performance Director Aaqib Javed said the PCB introduced the facilities to provide international-standard training and recreational opportunities at the academy.
He explained that long training camps should not focus only on cricket. Instead, players should participate in activities that improve fitness, coordination, and mental freshness.
According to Aaqib Javed, padel will now be mandatory every alternate day during lengthy training camps. Players will spend approximately 40 minutes on the court as part of their regular fitness programme.
He said the sport offers several physical benefits for cricketers. The quick movement, balance, and agility required in padel closely resemble the movement patterns used in cricket fielding.
Officials believe these similarities can help improve players’ reaction time, footwork, and overall athletic performance. The sport is also expected to reduce the monotony of long training camps by adding variety to daily routines.
The PCB considers this initiative an important part of its long-term high-performance strategy. The board wants to expose players to different sports that contribute to their physical and mental development.
Aaqib Javed also revealed that additional recreational facilities are being introduced at the National Cricket Academy. Basketball facilities are expected to become part of the training programme because the sport can also improve coordination and fitness.
The academy is also establishing indoor game rooms featuring snooker and other recreational activities. These additions are intended to help players relax while maintaining a healthy balance during demanding training schedules.
According to the High Performance Director, professional athletes around the world regularly participate in multiple sports instead of focusing only on their primary discipline. He believes this approach supports overall athletic growth and improves long-term performance.
The PCB hopes the expanded facilities will create a more modern and engaging environment for Pakistan’s national cricketers. Officials expect the combination of fitness training and recreational activities to improve both physical performance and mental well-being.
Pakistan’s national team is currently preparing for its upcoming tour of the West Indies. The tour will begin with a warm-up match in Tarouba on July 18, followed by a two-match Test series starting on July 25.
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As preparations continue, the introduction of padel reflects the PCB’s broader effort to modernize player development. The board believes the new training approach will help cricketers stay fit, improve fielding skills, and remain mentally refreshed throughout long international campaigns.
