Pakistan players sent to boot camp

23 July 2008

Pakistan team manager Talat Ali believes the training camp will improve team discipline

Pakistan players are being put through their paces this week at a military-style training camp in an attempt to eradicate disciplinary problems.

In response to a number of high-profile disciplinary cases involving their players, the Pakistan Cricket Board have taken a tougher stance ahead of the Champions Trophy in September.

The preliminary squad for competition has been sent to Kakul military base, where they are following a strict regime.

“This is an exercise aimed at inculcating more discipline in the players," said team manager Talat Ali.

“They are training with the assistance of military fitness trainers every morning under the supervision of our team trainer.

“Meals are taken in the mess hall and the players have to turn out in proper dress codes.”

Pakistan will participate in a four-nation Twenty20 tournament in Toronto from August 14 to 17, with Canada, Bangladesh and West Indies the other countries participating.

"We are confident this camp will prepare us for Canada and the other challenges ahead," added Talat.

Shoaib, who had an 18-month ban temporarily suspended by the Lahore High Court, was not asked to report for the camp because of fitness reasons.

Shahid Afridi is also absent because his wife is ill.