Pakistan Cricket Board Boosts Exposure for Emerging Talent with Packed International Schedule

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced initiatives to give its emerging and junior players more exposure to international cricket. Plans include a series of matches for Pakistan Shaheens against Bangladesh A and Sri Lanka A. The move, endorsed by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, aims to enhance pathway cricket programs following a disappointing T20 World Cup performance.

Following the footsteps of other leading cricket nations, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stepped up efforts to provide its backup players with valuable international exposure through national A and junior team programs.

The PCB declared on Tuesday that the Pakistan Shaheens will participate in a return series of four-day and one-day matches against Bangladesh A, in addition to hosting Sri Lanka A this year.

'The idea is to revive pathway cricket projects so that our backup talent is constantly getting exposure to international cricket,' stated a PCB official.

Pakistan Shaheens are set to play two four-day games against Bangladesh A in August, followed by three 50-over fixtures on August 23, 25, and 27. Incidentally, the Bangladesh national team will also be in Pakistan to play two ICC World Test Championship matches during the same period.

In November, Sri Lanka A will tour Pakistan for five matches against the Pakistan Shaheens. The four-day games are scheduled from November 11-14 and 18-21, with the 50-over clashes on November 25, 27, and 29. Venues will be announced later.

The Pakistan Emerging team will also defend its ACC Cup title in October, while the U-19 team will feature in a 50-over Tri-Nation Tournament and the ACC Asia Cup U-19 in November/December.

According to a reliable source, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the need to organize matches for the Pakistan A and junior teams following a disappointing T20 World Cup.

'When the PCB Chairman met with Pakistan team coaches Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie, along with national selectors, they unanimously agreed that Pakistan's backup talent required regular international exposure, akin to teams like India, England, and Australia,' a source revealed.

Currently, the Pakistan Shaheens are in Darwin, playing two four-day games against Bangladesh A, having won the opening encounter on Monday. They will also engage in white-ball matches during the tour.

(With inputs from agencies.)