The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed five iconic cricketers as mentors for the Champions Cup, marking a significant step in the development of Pakistan’s domestic cricket. The legendary figures include Misbah-ul-Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shoaib Malik, and Waqar Younis. These cricketing greats have given three-year contracts, underscoring the PCB’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of cricketers.
Mentors’ First Assignment: Champions One-Day Cup
The first assignment for these mentors will be the Champions One-Day Cup, scheduled to take place at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad from September 12 to 29, 2024. This event is not just a tournament but a homecoming for men’s senior competitive cricket to Faisalabad after nearly two years. The last 50-over domestic match in Faisalabad held in March 2022, and the return of this competition signifies the PCB’s dedication to revitalizing domestic cricket in the region.
Unmatched Experience and Achievements
The five mentors bring with them an extraordinary wealth of experience, having collectively played 1,621 international matches, scored 32,780 runs, and taken 1,503 wickets. Their accomplishments include winning ICC events, setting world records, and playing pivotal roles in some of Pakistan’s most memorable cricketing moments.
- Misbah-ul-Haq is Pakistan’s most successful Test captain, having led the team to 26 victories out of 56 Tests and achieving the No.1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings in August 2016.
- Saqlain Mushtaq renowned for his invention of the ‘Doosra’ and holds the record for being the fastest to 250 ODI wickets.
- Sarfaraz Ahmed celebrated for leading Pakistan to victories in the ICC U19 World Cup 2006 and ICC Champions Trophy 2017.
- Shoaib Malik is one of the most experienced cricketers globally, with a career spanning over 19 years.
- Waqar Younis is a bowling legend, holding the record for the fastest to 400 ODI wickets and having coached Pakistan in multiple World Cups.
PCB’s Vision for Future Cricketers
PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the importance of these appointments, stating, “These exceptional champions will play a pivotal role in the development and progression of our emerging cricketers. Their experience, knowledge, and passion for the game will be invaluable in identifying and nurturing the next generation of cricketers across all formats.”
This initiative is a critical part of the PCB’s broader strategy to strengthen Pakistan’s cricket through a robust domestic structure that offers clear and competitive pathways for players to represent Pakistan at the highest levels.
The appointment of these five legendary cricketers as mentors for the Champions Cup is a testament to the PCB’s commitment to fostering talent and ensuring the future success of Pakistan cricket. As the Champions One-Day Cup approaches, the influence of these mentors will keenly watched, with fans and aspiring cricketers alike eager to see the impact of their guidance on the field.
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