BENGALURU: Until the beginning of the World Cup last month, many players in the Pakistan team didn't know what it meant to play in India. On either side of the border, there is a lot of interest about places, cuisines and culture. But, in the five weeks the Pakistan team has been in India, Babar Azam and his men's experience of India has been largely restricted to stadiums and hotels, thanks to a claustrophobic blanket of security.
They have had just three dinner outings since arrival, while the other teams and their families have been soaking in the Indian experience. The scenario is far from ideal, but it is inevitable given the ground realities.
According to Pakistan team director Mickey Arthur, the restrictions have had an impact on the team, but he was quick to point out that it was no excuse for their placid performance. "Being on the road is nothing new for these guys. What has been tough is the fact that we've been under a massive amount of security. To be fair, I found it difficult," said Arthur.
The 55-year-old said, "It's almost like we're back in Covid times, where you were secluded to your floor and your team room. So much so that their breakfast is in a separate room to everybody else. That's been the tough aspect."
Terming the restrictions "stifling", Arthur added, "The aspect about being on the road is, our boys are used to it. But when they're on the road, they've still been able to get out and have meals at different places, and get out on their own accord. We haven't been able to do it this time. That has been quite stifling."
Arthur admitted the restrictions mentally affect players. "I've seen it with some players: you wake up again and it's like Groundhog Day. It's the same. You have breakfast and if it's a non-training day, you're back to your room. We've tried to have fun events within our room. But there's only so much you can recreate."
