Islamabad( The COW News Digital)The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced a nationwide School Talent Hunt Program, aimed at identifying and nurturing young cricketing talent across the country. The initiative will target over 400 schools in 39 districts, with more than 60 PCB coaches conducting trials to select the most promising players.
Following the trials, the participating schools will compete in a one-day 40-over tournament next month, providing a platform for young cricketers to showcase their skills. The top 100 teams from this event will advance to the Weekend Schools League, where the champion team will earn the opportunity for an international tour.
According to the PCB, standout performers from this talent hunt will also have the chance to participate in PCB Under-15 and Under-17 tournaments, providing a clear pathway for young players to progress to higher levels of competitive cricket.
Abdullah Khurram Niazi, Director of Domestic Cricket at PCB, emphasized that the board will fully fund the program, ensuring that students can pursue cricket without compromising their education. “This initiative allows children to develop their cricketing skills while continuing their studies, promoting a balanced approach to sports and academics,” he stated.
The program is also set to improve cricket infrastructure at the grassroots level, with 168 school grounds nationwide to be developed and equipped for training and matches. This effort reflects PCB’s long-term vision to strengthen domestic cricket and ensure a continuous pipeline of talented players for regional and national teams.
PCB officials highlighted that the School Talent Hunt Program is not only about competition but also about building discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship among students. Coaches will provide guidance on technical skills, fitness, and game strategy, fostering a professional environment for young athletes.
This initiative comes amid increasing recognition of Pakistan’s young cricketing talent on both domestic and international stages. By focusing on schools, PCB aims to discover players from diverse backgrounds, including remote and underrepresented areas, ensuring equal opportunities for all aspiring cricketers.
Parents, schools, and communities are encouraged to participate actively and support the program, which seeks to combine education and sports while nurturing the next generation of cricket stars.
