Former Pakistan cricket captain Azhar Ali has been appointed as the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) new head of youth development. The PCB announced the creation of this role following a recruitment process, and Azhar will continue to serve as a member of the selection committee for the men’s national team alongside his new responsibilities.
In his role, Azhar will be responsible for shaping the future of Pakistan cricket through the design and implementation of comprehensive youth cricket strategies. His tasks will include establishing grassroots cricket structures, strengthening age-group programs in collaboration with regional cricket associations, and educating emerging cricketers as part of the PCB’s Pathways Programme. Additionally, he will organize seminars and clinics aimed at promoting off-field development for aspiring players.
Azhar, a key figure in Pakistan’s cricket history, is considered a success story of the country’s player pathway system. Having made his first-class debut in 2002 and represented Pakistan at the Under-19 World Cup the same year, Azhar enjoyed a distinguished career, scoring over 7,000 Test runs and captaining both the Test and ODI sides. His extensive experience in club and domestic cricket gives him a unique perspective on grassroots development.
“I am honoured and excited to take on this important role,” Azhar said. “I understand the critical role grassroots development plays in shaping future stars, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to elevate our youth development programme further,” he added.
Currently, Pakistan’s U-19 team is competing in a triangular series in the UAE, with Afghanistan as the third participant.
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