PCB appoints Azhar Ali as Head of Youth Development

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday appointed former captain Azhar Ali as the head of youth development.

This will be an additional responsibility for Azhar, already a member of the Men’s National Selection Committee, the PCB said in a press statement.

Azhar, a celebrated figure in Pakistan cricket, started his journey at the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup in 2002 before moving on to the senior national team. Over a distinguished career from 2010 to 2022, he won 97 Tests and 53 ODI caps.

He led the national team in nine Tests and 31 ODIs. He was also a key member of Pakistan’s historic ICC Champions Trophy winning team in 2017.

As Head of Youth Development, Azhar was tasked with shaping the future of cricket in Pakistan by designing and implementing comprehensive youth cricket strategies, establishing strong grassroots cricket structures and talent pathways, working with regional cricket associations to strengthen age group programs, educate emerging ones. cricketers under the PCB’s Pathways Program and holding seminars and clinics to raise awareness about the essentials of off-field development for aspiring players.

On his new role, Azhar said he is honored and excited to take up the important post.

“Having come up through the age group ranks and played extensive club and national cricket, I understand the critical role local development plays in shaping future stars.

“Significant progress has already been made in this area and I look forward to working with my colleagues to further grow our youth development programme. Our goal is to identify promising talent and equip them with the tools to excel at the highest level.”

The PCB congratulated Azhar on his appointment and expressed confidence that his experience and vision will contribute significantly to the growth and success of youth cricket in Pakistan.