PCB signals major revamp to boost Pakistan's international cricket performance

PCB chief outlined plans to establish regular tournaments spanning from local clubs to national level

KARACHI:

Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi emphasized on Tuesday the critical role of high-quality domestic cricket in enhancing international competitiveness.

A three-hour session at Lahore's National Cricket Academy was attended by PCB COO Salman Naseer, CFO Javed Murtaza, Selection Committee Analyst Bilal Afzal, Directors of International Cricket Usman Wahla, and other officials.

“Quality domestic cricket will be prioritized across all levels, ensuring consistent organization of tournaments from grassroots clubs to the national level,” Naqvi stated during the meeting.

He added, “Top coaches will mentor emerging talent to enhance their skills, with advancement based on performance, fitness, and merit.”

“The emphasis on elevating domestic cricket standards will help bridge the gap with international cricket.”

Naqvi outlined plans to establish regular tournaments spanning from local clubs to the national level, where elite coaches will develop young talent based on their performance, fitness, and merit. Additionally, a lead coach will be appointed to elevate coaching standards.

He underscored that selection for the national team will be rigorously based on fitness and merit, without any compromises.

“Selection of players will strictly adhere to fitness and merit criteria, with no exceptions,” Naqvi said, adding it is imperative to swiftly introduce new talent to the global stage.

“Investing in emerging talent will invigorate grassroots cricket and yield favorable outcomes,” said the PCB chairman.

The meeting also examined the domestic cricket frameworks of India, New Zealand, Australia, and England.