The Prime Minister's Youth Programme (PMYP), in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission (HEC), signed an MOU with Lahore Qalandars, formally launched the Prime Minister’s Cricket Talent Hunt Programme—a nationwide initiative to discover and develop emerging cricket talent across Pakistan.
The signing ceremony and official announcement, held in Islamabad, marked a significant step forward in the government's mission to promote youth inclusion through sports, alongside education, employment, and digital access.
Speaking at the event, Chairman PMYP Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan emphasized that this initiative follows the successful launch of the Boxing Talent Hunt and represents the government’s vision to extend opportunities across all major sports. He noted that trials will be conducted in 25 cities, beginning from Quetta on June 26–27, to ensure inclusivity—especially in underrepresented regions.
He called the Cricket Talent Hunt a transformative initiative that will provide a level playing field for both boys and girls, and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to reshape national sports infrastructure through merit-based, transparent programs.
CEO of Lahore Qalandars Rana Atif highlighted the franchise’s decade-long dedication to grassroots talent development, calling the collaboration with PMYP a historic opportunity to scale that model nationwide. He shared that Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and several other national stars are the result of similar open trials and player development efforts.
He also referenced Lahore Qalandars’ three PSL championships in four seasons, and announced that the PSL trophy will tour the UK and USA as a symbol of Pakistan’s success, safety, and sports diplomacy.
Rana Atif also recalled support from the local and international community, including moments when foreign diplomats and journalists wore Qalandars shirts in solidarity at Gaddafi Stadium, showcasing global trust in Pakistan as a sporting nation.
Pakistan’s cricket captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, a shining product of Lahore Qalandars’ Player Development Program, delivered an inspiring message during the ceremony. He said: When people said Pakistan lacked talent, Lahore Qalandars proved them wrong. With PMYP, we’re now bringing that same mission to every street and every city. To every young cricketer out there—your future starts here. He thanked PMYP and Lahore Qalandars for bringing such an opportunity to the next generation and urged aspiring cricketers to believe in their potential.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) also addressed the gathering, highlighting the central role that universities and academic institutions will play in identifying and supporting young talent through this program. He affirmed HEC’s full support in aligning sports excellence with educational growth, and expressed confidence that this initiative will lead to a holistic development model for Pakistani youth.
Officials announced that the talent hunt will include both male and female categories, with regional trials held at major venues across Pakistan. Finalists will be included in the Player Development Program—offering training, grooming, and exposure at national and international levels.
The partnership also aims to integrate youth initiatives like the Digital Youth Hub, employment and scholarship programs, and National Youth Policy to foster social cohesion and national harmony through sports.
The event concluded with a media Q&A session, where journalists posed questions regarding program logistics, selection processes, safety, gender participation, and future expansion. All concerns were addressed in detail, with assurances of transparency, fairness, and inclusive outreach.
At the conclusion of the event, Chairman PMYP Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, CEO Lahore Qalandars Rana Atif, Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, and national cricketer Shaheen Shah Afridi personally thanked the media for their consistent role in supporting youth development, promoting national unity, and projecting Pakistan’s positive image on the global stage. Their contribution was recognized as essential to the success and outreach of such national initiatives.
This partnership between PMYP and Lahore Qalandars reflects a shared commitment to the youth of Pakistan and sends a message that opportunity is coming to every doorstep. With 25 cities on the map, the Cricket Talent Hunt is just the beginning of a broader movement to uplift Pakistan’s sporting future.
