Asia Cup 2023: In preparation for the Asia Cup 2023, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reintroduced the acclaimed sports psychologist, Dr. Maqbool Babri in the team. Given the significance of facing India in at least three cricket encounters and participating in two prestigious tournaments, the PCB has taken the initiative to engage a sports psychologist to assist Babar Azam & Co in managing the intense pressure. Dr. Babri will accompany the Pakistan Cricket team to Sri Lanka for the Afghanistan vs Pakistan ODI series ahead of both the Asia Cup and World Cup 2023.
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PCB includes psychologist for Asia Cup 2023
A PCB source stated, “Yes, Dr Maqbool Babri who has worked in the past with counselling of some of our players will be accompanying the squad.” He mentioned that the board’s intention is to provide comprehensive support to the players, ensuring they can concentrate wholeheartedly on their cricket and upcoming matches. In previous instances, Babri has collaborated with certain players, aiding them in comprehending strategies for managing high-pressure scenarios, overcoming challenging performances, and addressing personal matters.
An insider from the PCB revealed that Babri’s inclusion in the team is aimed at ensuring that the players have constant access to a certified psychologist with whom they can openly converse and address any concerns, instead of keeping their emotions suppressed. Given that the majority of Pakistani players, including captain Babar Azam, have not experienced playing matches in India, the team lacks familiarity with the immense pressure from the crowd of arch-rivals and the expectations of millions of fans back home.
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PCB had included psychologist in previous series too
Following Pakistan’s experiences of losing high-pressure matches to Australia and England in two T20 World Cups, PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf concluded that it would be prudent to have a psychologist accompanying the team. The upcoming match, coupled with the venue, is expected to attract significant media scrutiny. Back in 2012, during Pakistan’s visit to India for a limited-overs series (consisting of 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is), PCB had enlisted the presence of Dr. Maqbool Babri with the team. Given the positive outcomes achieved, the PCB has opted to reinstate his role for the current scenario.
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