In a significant move to bolster the development of emerging cricketers in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed five cricketing legends—Misbah-ul-Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shoaib Malik, and Waqar Younis—as mentors for the five Champions Cup sides. These appointments, announced today, follow a rigorous and transparent recruitment process, with the mentors signing three-year contracts. The names of the teams and their respective squads will be disclosed in the coming weeks.
The mentors will embark on their first assignment during the Champions One-Day Cup, scheduled to take place at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium from September 12 to 29, 2024. This tournament marks the return of senior men’s competitive cricket to Faisalabad after nearly two years, with the last 50-over domestic match played in March 2022. The Champions One-Day Cup promises to showcase the best talent from across the nation in a high-stakes, single-league format.
An All-Star Mentoring Lineup
Between them, the five mentors boast an extraordinary wealth of experience, having played 1,621 international matches, scored 32,780 runs, and taken 1,503 wickets. Their vast cricketing knowledge and accomplishments on the global stage make them ideal candidates to guide and inspire the next generation of Pakistani cricketers.
- Misbah-ul-Haq is Pakistan’s most successful Test captain, known for leading the team to the top of the ICC Test Rankings in 2016. Misbah’s illustrious career includes two 50-over World Cups, three T20 World Cups, and three ICC Champions Trophy events. His tactical acumen and leadership qualities will be invaluable for the side he mentors.
- Saqlain Mushtaq is celebrated for his mastery of spin bowling, including his invention of the ‘Doosra’. He remains the fastest to 250 ODI wickets and is second on the list for most consecutive five-wicket hauls in ODIs. Saqlain’s expertise, especially in spin, will be crucial for nurturing young bowlers in the Champions Cup.
- Sarfaraz Ahmed is a two-time ICC event-winning captain, having led Pakistan to victories in the ICC U19 World Cup 2006 and ICC Champions Trophy 2017. Known for his sharp wicket-keeping skills and leadership, Sarfaraz will bring a wealth of experience in managing high-pressure situations.
- Shoaib Malik is one of the most versatile cricketers in Pakistan’s history, with a career spanning over 19 years. Malik’s experience across multiple formats, including six T20 World Cups and six Champions Trophy tournaments, along with his all-round capabilities, make him an invaluable mentor.
- Waqar Younis is a fast-bowling legend, holding the record for the fastest to 400 ODI wickets and leading the list of captains with the best ODI bowling figures. His deep understanding of fast bowling will be critical in developing the next generation of Pakistani pacers.
PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi’s Vision
PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi expressed his excitement at the appointments, emphasizing the significant role these legends will play in bridging the gap between domestic and international cricket in Pakistan.
“I am pleased to welcome five exceptional champions as mentors for the Champions Cup teams. These individuals bring a wealth of cricketing experience, knowledge, and expertise, which, combined with their passion for the game we all love, will help the Pakistan Cricket Board identify, develop, and nurture the next generation of cricketers across all formats. This initiative will not only benefit the Pakistan men’s cricket team but also help bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket,” Naqvi stated.
He further highlighted the PCB’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s cricket through a robust domestic structure that offers a clear and competitive pathway for all cricketers. Naqvi stressed that the mentors would guide strategic planning, team-building, leadership, and personal development processes, helping the most talented players advance to represent Pakistan at the highest level.
Looking Ahead
As the PCB Domestic Cricket Season 2024-25 kicks off, all eyes will be on the Champions One-Day Cup in Faisalabad, where these cricketing greats will take on their mentoring roles. Their involvement is expected to significantly impact the development of Pakistan’s domestic cricket and contribute to the success of the national team in future international competitions.
With their rich legacy and deep understanding of the game, Misbah-ul-Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shoaib Malik, and Waqar Younis are set to shape the future of Pakistan cricket, ensuring that the country remains a formidable force on the global stage.
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