As the ICC World Cup 2023 approaches, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is leaving no stone unturned to ensure its players are mentally equipped to handle the pressure of the high-stakes tournament. According to reports, the PCB is planning to hire a psychologist who will accompany the team to India and assist the players in dealing with the immense pressure and expectations that come with the event.
Pakistan is considered one of the strong contenders to win the World Cup this year, and the players are likely to face significant pressure to deliver on the field. Moreover, competing in India, where the rivalry between the two cricketing nations is intense, will add to the challenges faced by Babar Azam and his team.
Recognizing the significance of mental strength in cricket, the PCB aims to provide the players with the necessary support and guidance. As most of the players will be playing in India for the first time, the presence of a psychologist is deemed crucial in helping them maintain a positive and focused mindset throughout the competition.
While the PCB is exploring potential candidates for the psychologist role, no official appointment has been made as of yet. However, the board’s proactive approach in seeking professional assistance to address the players’ mental well-being reflects their commitment to giving Pakistan the best chance of success in the World Cup.
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This is not the first time the PCB has enlisted the services of a sports psychologist. During Pakistan’s visit to India for a limited-overs series in 2012, they were accompanied by sports psychologist Maqbool Babri, showcasing the board’s past efforts in this domain.
The ICC World Cup 2023, scheduled to begin on October 5 in Ahmedabad, will witness fierce competition among ten participating teams, vying for cricket’s most coveted trophy. A total of 48 matches will be played across ten venues during the 46-day-long tournament, culminating in the final on November 19 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Pakistan’s campaign is set to kick off on October 6 against the Netherlands in Hyderabad, followed by a clash against Sri Lanka at the same venue on October 12. The much-anticipated game against arch-rivals India, initially scheduled for October 15, is likely to take place on October 14 in Ahmedabad.
Pakistan will aim to end their long-awaited quest for the World Cup title, with their last triumph dating back to 1992 when Imran Khan led them to victory. With the right support and mental fortitude, the Men in Green hope to etch their names in cricketing history once again.