The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former national captain Azhar Ali as the Head of Youth Development, a pivotal role aimed at nurturing the future stars of Pakistan cricket. This announcement follows a structured recruitment process undertaken by the PCB.
Azhar Ali’s responsibilities will include designing and implementing comprehensive strategies for youth cricket, establishing robust grassroots cricket structures, and developing talent pathways. Additionally, he will work closely with regional cricket associations to enhance age-group programs, mentor emerging players through the PCB’s Pathways Programme, and conduct seminars to raise awareness about off-field development essentials for aspiring cricketers.
The PCB, in a statement quoted by ESPNcricinfo, outlined the significance of Azhar’s role:
“Tasked with shaping the future of Pakistan cricket by designing and implementing comprehensive youth cricket strategies, establishing robust grassroots cricket structures and talent pathways, collaborating with regional cricket associations to strengthen age-group programmes, educating emerging cricketers under the PCB’s Pathways Programme, and organising seminars and clinics to build awareness of off-field development essentials for aspiring players.”
Expressing his excitement about the new position, Azhar said, “I am honoured and excited to take on this important role. 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.”
Azhar Ali brings a wealth of experience to this role. A former captain of the national ODI team from 2015 to 2017, he took over from Misbah-ul-Haq after the 2015 World Cup. Despite a challenging tenure that saw Pakistan drop to No. 9 in the ODI rankings, Azhar’s leadership experience remains valuable. His international playing career includes a strong presence in Test cricket, though he never participated in T20Is, and his last ODI appearance for Pakistan was in January 2018.
In addition to his role in youth development, Azhar will also serve as a member of the selection committee for the men’s national team.