The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched a bold new initiative aimed at transforming how young cricket talent is nurtured in the country. For the first time, the board will take responsibility not just for cricket training but also for the formal education of its junior players.
Under this program, the PCB will fully fund school and college expenses—including admission fees and annual tuition—for players aged 15 to 19. The goal is to ensure that aspiring cricketers don’t have to sacrifice their studies in pursuit of a professional career, addressing a long-standing challenge in Pakistan’s sports ecosystem where education often takes a back seat.
Training Academies Linked to Age Groups
The board has designated three academies as part of this dual-development plan:
- Sialkot Academy: Focused on Under-15 players
- Faisalabad Academy: Dedicated to the Under-17 group
- Multan Academy: Set up for the Under-19 category
Selection will remain performance-based, with regional cricket acting as the primary talent pipeline.
Meanwhile, the Karachi academy has been allocated for women’s cricket, the Pakistan Shaheens, and the national ‘A’ team, ensuring elite players also benefit from structured, high-quality training facilities.
A Cultural Shift in Pakistan Cricket
This marks a significant shift in PCB’s approach to talent development. Historically, young players in Pakistan often face a stark choice between pursuing education or dedicating themselves entirely to cricket. By integrating both pathways, the PCB is signaling its intent to produce well-rounded athletes who are prepared for life beyond the boundary ropes.
If implemented effectively, this program could not only strengthen Pakistan’s grassroots cricket system but also improve the long-term professionalism and leadership within the sport. For a country where cricket is a passion but player welfare has often lagged behind, this could be a major step forward.
