‘Bhai bohot zaroori hai inke liye’ – Fans react as Pakistan explores possibility of sending psychologist with travelling squad for ODI World Cup 2023

The ODI World Cup 2023 is the next big Cricket event this year. While teams are gearing up for the mega-event, Pakistan have been more concerned with security in India, given the geopolitical tensions. Earlier, they sent a security delegation to India to access the World Cup venues and demanded a few changes in the schedule. They recently held a high-level political meeting to discuss the approval for the team to travel beyond borders to the neighbouring country and participate in Cricket’s most prestigious tournament.

In the latest update, the Pakistan Cricket Board is considering sending a psychologist with the team travelling to India. A report in Cricket Pakistan stated the need for a Psychologist is because the current crop of players does not have experience playing in India. The hype in the media, as well as expectations from fans along with the World Cup, can add pressure. “Therefore, serious consideration is being given to appointing a psychologist. He will accompany the squad to the neighbouring country and help boost the players’ morale during crucial moments, protecting them from any fears,” the report added.

Famous sports psychologist Maqbool Babri is a possible option for Pakistan

Notably, the team management has also explored options with famous sports psychologist Maqbool Babri leading the list of probable. Babri was the sports psychologist the last time Pakistan travelled to India for a white-ball series. He was also in charge of Mohammed Amir after he returned home serving a prison sentence because of a fixing scandal in 2010 alongside Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif. The appointed psychologist will also have a few sessions with the players before they travel to India.

Talking of the latest update on Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023. The PCB did make a statement following the earlier mentioned high-level meeting. “PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) has received positive signals through channels. Once security clearance is obtained, the team will travel across the border. There is also a possibility of sending a delegation to assess the current situation,” it said.

Here’s how fans reacted:

https://twitter.com/iamMarketWiz/status/1687876113677312000

https://twitter.com/WAS_VISHU/status/1687876827120037888