Former captain Azhar Ali posing for an image on February 18, 2024. —Fb/ @azharali199
Former captain Azhar Ali has been appointed because the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)’s Head of Youth Growth, following a recruitment course of.
This position can be an extension of Azhar’s current duties, as he additionally serves as a member of the Males’s Nationwide Choice Committee.
Azhar, a celebrated determine in Pakistan cricket, started his journey on the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup in 2002 earlier than transitioning to the senior nationwide group. Over a distinguished profession spanning from 2010 to 2022, he earned 97 Check and 53 ODI caps.
He captained the nationwide aspect in 9 Checks and 31 ODIs. He was additionally a key member of Pakistan’s historic ICC Champions Trophy-winning squad in 2017.
As the pinnacle of Youth Growth, Azhar has been tasked with shaping the way forward for Pakistan cricket by designing and implementing complete youth cricket methods, establishing sturdy grassroots cricket constructions and expertise pathways, collaborating with regional cricket associations to strengthen age-group programmes, educating rising cricketers underneath the PCB’s Pathways Programme, and organising seminars and clinics to construct consciousness of off-field growth necessities for aspiring gamers.
On his new position, Azhar mentioned he was honoured and excited to tackle the necessary job.
“Having risen through the age-group ranks and played extensive club and domestic cricket, I understand the critical role grassroots development plays in shaping future stars.
“Significant strides have already been made in this area and I look forward to working with my colleagues to elevate our youth development programme further. 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 expertise and imaginative and prescient would considerably contribute to the expansion and success of youth cricket in Pakistan.