The NED University of Engineering and Technology (NED) in Karachi and two-time Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions Lahore Qalandars have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a transformative collaboration aimed at advancing sports excellence and promoting talent development in Pakistan.
Under this MoU, the two organizations will create a state-of-the-art Sports High Performance Resource Centre named the ‘NED-Qalandars High Performance Centre (NED-QHPC).’ This initiative symbolizes the partnership’s commitment to fostering cricketing talent and enhancing sports science in the country.
As a leading and active PSL franchise, Lahore Qalandars will contribute their expertise and resources to modernize the Centre. This modernization will incorporate cutting-edge technologies and commercial practices, making it a hub for sports innovation and excellence. Beyond facility enhancement, the partnership will explore commercial opportunities at the NED-QHPC, while also offering training, rehabilitation, and capacity-building services.
The MoU is effective immediately and will span five years, with provisions for further extensions. One of the partnership’s significant goals is to create formal certification and degree programs in professional sports, leveraging the combined expertise of NED University and Lahore Qalandars.
Lahore Qalandars will also manage a biomechanics laboratory at NED University, using advanced technology to assist bowlers in rehabilitating their bowling actions, preventing injuries, and enhancing performance through sports science. This integration of biomechanics represents a groundbreaking addition to Lahore Qalandars’ player development program, further solidifying their position as a pioneer in the realm of sports performance.
Dr. Sarosh H. Lodi, Vice Chancellor of NED University, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “This partnership marks a significant step towards nurturing local sporting talent and advancing sports science in Pakistan. We look forward to leveraging Lahore Qalandars’ expertise to create a world-class sports facility. Their services in the field of talent hunt and development are paramount and have given over 50 players to the national cricket circuit of Pakistan.”
Atif Rana, CEO of Lahore Qalandars, emphasized the importance of talent development by incorporating a Biomechanics Laboratory at NED University. He stated, “I thank NED University and its management for trusting our system and becoming a part of it. Our collaboration with NED University aligns with our vision of fostering grassroots sports talent. Together, we aim to establish a premier hub for sports excellence. We have a state-of-the-art facility in Lahore for development, and with NED in Karachi, we aim to extend our outreach, allowing talent to thrive and grow.”
This initiative makes Lahore Qalandars the first T20 franchise to establish a comprehensive ecosystem dedicated to talent development. Already operating a successful High Performance Center in Lahore and constructing another center at the University of Lahore, the Qalandars’ commitment to innovation and excellence in player development continues to set new standards in the sports industry.
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