Azhar Ali, a former captain of Pakistan, has been named the PCB’s head of youth development. According to the PCB, Azhar will fill the newly formed position in addition to his current position as a member of the men’s national team selection committee. The position was filled following a recruitment procedure.
Although brief on the specifics of the position, a statement from the PCB stated that Azhar would be “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” .
One of the clearer illustrations of a success story through Pakistan’s player pathway scheme is Azhar.
In 2002, he made his first-class debut and was included in the Pakistani Under-19 World Cup team. Before returning to Pakistan, he continued to improve his skills in the UK. He made his Test debut in 2010 and went on to become a brilliant player for Pakistan, amassing 7142 Test runs at an average of 42.26 and momentarily leading both the Test and ODI teams.
Azhar stated on the PCB’s website, “I am honored and excited to take on this important role.” “Having progressed through the age groups and participated in a lot of club and domestic cricket, I am aware of how important grassroots development is in producing future stars.
“We’ve already made great progress in this area, and I’m excited to continue working with my colleagues to improve our youth development program. Finding promising talent and giving them the resources they need to succeed at the greatest level is our aim.
Afghanistan is the third team participating in a triangular series with Pakistan’s U-19 team in the United Arab Emirates.
Azhar Ali: Career as a Batsman and Coach
Batsman Statistics
Azhar Ali had an illustrious career as a Test batsman for Pakistan, known for his resilience and concentration:
- Tests: Played 97 matches, scored 7,142 runs with a batting average of 42.26. His highest score is 302* against the West Indies in 2016. He hit 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries in Tests.
- ODIs: Featured in 53 matches, amassing 1,845 runs at an average of 36.90. His highest score was 102, including 3 centuries and 12 fifties.
- Bowling in Tests: Occasionally bowled, taking 8 wickets in his Test career with best figures of 2/35.
Azhar’s temperament and ability to anchor innings made him a crucial part of Pakistan’s batting lineup, especially in Tests.
As a Coach
After retiring in December 2022, Azhar Ali transitioned to coaching. He was part of Worcestershire’s coaching staff during the 2023 County Championship. His approach as a coach emphasizes strategic planning and nurturing young talents, reflecting the discipline he displayed as a player. Azhar’s coaching contributions are gaining recognition in domestic cricket
Read more news: Cricket News
