Overview
- The Pakistan Cricket Board announced Wednesday that padel will be compulsory for cricketers in long training camps at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, with sessions set for about 40 minutes every other day.
- PCB director of high performance Aqib Javed has overseen the ruling and said the rule formalizes a practice many players already follow but previously had to travel to access courts.
- The NCA now has a dedicated padel court and has already installed an AI‑powered bowling machine as part of a broader push to modernize on‑campus training tools.
- The board plans further facility additions at the academy, including basketball courts and an indoor games hall featuring snooker and other recreational options.
- Officials argue padel's quick direction changes and short‑court rallies build endurance, footwork and reaction speed useful for fielding, and the mandate could change daily fitness routines and squad preparation during centralized camps.