Watch: Iftikhar Ahmed practices shirtless on field, sparks controversy
Iftikhar Ahmed’s shirtless training session sparks debate over player safety and professionalism, prompting calls for stricter team management protocols.
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Recently, a training camp with Pakistani cricketer Iftikhar Ahmed has sparked backlash after a video made the rounds of him training without a shirt on a cricket field. The video had gotten out on social media very quickly and was viewed by numerous people who saw Iftikhar performing rigorous fitness training without his shirt on—an event that questioned player safety while training as well as professionalism as a member of the team.
What some considered either a humorous or traumatic fitness routine resulted in serious health and image issues for others. A medical professional commented on social media, "Practicing without a shirt is dangerous in open conditions—with exposure, heat, and risk of dehydration." Fans added to the conversations—while most people who viewed the video suggested this behavior should not be part of any team training session, they accused the manager, coaching staff, and/or support staff of not having a clear-cut and standard process regarding training protocols for players under their supervision.
Training in hot conditions without a shirt will also raise the risk of a heat-related incident, sunburn, and eventually fatigue if athletes do not manage their hydration and protection correctly. Critics were of the view that athletes, especially at the international level, have a standard of discipline and responsibility not only for themselves but also to provide an example for young aspiring players. While some fans supported the cricketer's decision as a matter of comfort during physically intense drills, the majority were concerned about the image and professionalism it presented.
@IftiMania practicing without wearing a shirt. Has he lost his Mind? Is there NO accountability in @TheRealPCB? As a doctor I can tell you how dangerous this can be.#PakistanCricket I #IftikharAhmad pic.twitter.com/OTfjCWFYpD
— Pakistan Cricket Team USA FC (@DoctorofCricket) July 4, 2025
Continued Concerns Regarding Fitness Culture and Management Standards
The incident raised greater questions about the fitness culture and management standards within the national setup. Many people felt that permitting players to train without the right attire and without protection set a poor example of the professionalism of the team environment.
A number of fans and pundits suggested that training in a supervised structured plan is essential for first-class/tier athletes. Regardless of whether Iftikhar's training was spontaneous or a habit, it raises the importance of supervision, coaching, structured training, and achieving standards on and off the field—especially as we lead up to important international commitments.
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