Why are Pakistani cricketers learning to snipe from army ahead of US visit? | VIDEO

New Delhi: Pakistan cricket players have come under intense scrutiny after videos surfaced on social media showing them undergoing a fitness regime that includes sniper shooting training. Netizens have criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board's decision to involve players in such activities, questioning whether they are preparing for a cricket tournament or a military operation.

Fitness regime dupervised by armed forces

Under the directive of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, international players are participating in a rigorous fitness regimen supervised by armed forces personnel. The training, aimed at enhancing players' fitness levels, is being conducted at the Army School Of Physical Training in Abbottabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Concerns over players' physical condition

Naqvi's decision stems from concerns regarding the physical condition of Pakistan players and their performance on the field. With criticism mounting, Naqvi is determined to see players improve their fitness levels through intensive training.

Cricket training ❌

Asli maqsad ✅

Pakistan isn't even hiding it anymore. pic.twitter.com/R8BqOD9bgC

— Johns (@JohnyBravo183) April 6, 2024

Drill challenges, controversial activities

During the training, players faced various challenges and drills to improve endurance. Videos shared on social media depicted players carrying rocks uphill and engaging in strenuous exercises. However, controversy arose when footage emerged showing Pakistan players, including Fakhar Zaman, participating in sniper shooting training supervised by armed forces personnel.

Social media backlash

The videos sparked outrage among netizens, who ridiculed the training regimen, questioning whether the players were gearing up for a cricket tournament or preparing for military combat, particularly targeting America. The unconventional nature of the training drew widespread criticism and ridicule on social media platforms.

Upoming series of 

Despite the controversy surrounding their fitness training, Pakistan players are gearing up for upcoming cricket engagements. They are scheduled to participate in a five-match home T20I series against New Zealand, followed by a three-match T20I series against Ireland and four T20Is against England. Subsequently, Pakistan will travel to the USA for the T20 World Cup.

The involvement of Pakistan cricket players in a fitness regime that includes sniper training has sparked debate and controversy. While the aim may be to enhance players' physical fitness, the unconventional methods have drawn criticism and raised questions about the priorities of the Pakistan Cricket Board. As players prepare for upcoming tournaments, the controversy surrounding their training methods remains a topic of discussion among fans and observers alike.