CRICKET

No Compromise On Players' Fitness: Arthur

Pakistan cricket team coach Mickey Arthur has said there will be no compromise on team's fitness standards and players performance will determine their future.

Speaking to reporters at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, Mickey Arthur said Champions Trophy was a phenomenal victory but now the players must focus on improving their skills and putting in consistent performances.

Speaking on new players, Arthur said youngsters have impressed with their skills, right attitude and work ethics.

He said loosing Misbah ul Haq and Younis Khan has been a challenge but now younger players like Usman Salahuddin, Harris Sohail and Babar Azam have a great opportunity to show their skills and fill the void.

On discarded middle-order batsman Umar Akmal, Pakistan coach said the batsman's performance has been not up to standard and called for greater maturity to earn a recall.

Arthur added that he is training the team for the 2019 World Cup and talks on his contract extension are ongoing with Pakistan Cricket Board.