ISLAMABAD: In a bid to promote youth engagement and discover emerging cricketing talent, Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions Lahore Qalandars have officially partnered with the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme to launch a nationwide talent hunt.
At a press conference in Islamabad on Thursday, key stakeholders including Chairman PM Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, Qalandars’ captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, CEO Atif Rana, and Higher Education Commission Chairman Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed shared details of the new initiative.
As part of the collaboration, cricket trials will be held in 25 cities across Pakistan, starting with Quetta on June 26–27. The programme aims to provide equal opportunities to aspiring cricketers from every region, identifying and nurturing raw talent through structured development platforms.
Addressing the media, Shaheen Afridi highlighted the franchise’s long-standing commitment to player development.
“Lahore Qalandars have been running a player development programme for over a decade. With the government’s support, we are now taking this mission to the next level,” he said.
“I urge the youth of Pakistan to actively participate and make the most of this golden opportunity.”
Rana Mashhood praised Qalandars’ consistent efforts in empowering youth through sport and outlined the government’s broader vision for national sports revival.
He announced the establishment of 11 sports academies, including new AstroTurf hockey pitches, as well as a dedicated Rs100 million allocation for Olympian Arshad Nadeem’s athletics academy in Islamabad, with a total project cost estimated at Rs2.85 billion.
CEO Atif Rana reflected on Qalandars’ achievements, noting that the franchise had secured three PSL titles in four years despite various challenges, including a drone attack in Rawalpindi and the banning of their social media accounts in India.
“We have always believed in showcasing Pakistan’s true image. The PSL trophy will now tour the UK and USA, symbolising our cricketing excellence and helping promote Pakistan globally,” said Atif.
“Our partnership with the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme is a testament to our shared vision of empowering the nation’s youth through sports.”
The initiative marks a significant step toward integrating professional sports with national development goals and further strengthens the Qalandars’ reputation as pioneers in grassroots cricket promotion.
