Sindh’s Minister for Sports, Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Mahar, has criticized Pakistani cricketers over their diet and fitness.
Speaking at the Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Ramadan Cricket Tournament in Korangi Town, Karachi, he questioned, “If our cricketers continue eating Halwa Puri, Nihari, and Haleem, how will they perform on the field?”
Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Mahar emphasized the importance of maintaining a strict diet and proper nutrition, particularly after Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy, which has left the entire nation frustrated.
“Our national team couldn’t even reach the final, nor did the final reach us,” he remarked, expressing concerns over the team’s fitness and overall preparation. He stated that while cricket does not fall under his jurisdiction, he now feels the need to take action to improve the sport in Pakistan.
The minister stressed the urgency of investing in player development and fitness programs. “If you’re not fit, you can’t perform. Some bowlers in our team are so unfit that even I could hit them for sixes,” he said humorously. He also commented on the lack of quality batsmen, claiming, “There are some batters I could easily dismiss myself.”
Reflecting on Karachi’s past, he noted that Korangi was once notorious for land grabbing and illegal activities, but now, seeing sports events thrive in the area brings him great joy.
To support young athletes, Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Mahar announced that the Sindh government will organize multiple sports tournaments in Korangi next year, including cricket. Additionally, floodlights will be installed at Korangi’s cricket ground, allowing youth to play even at night.
He also revealed plans to establish the Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Cricket Academy and a gym club in Korangi to promote sports and fitness.