Pakistan Cricket Board’s newly-appointed Director of High Performance, Aaqib Javed, has taken immediate steps to revive cricket development across the country. Speaking at the LCCA Ground in Lahore on the opening day of a skill development program for the national team, Aaqib revealed a strategic framework for rejuvenating cricket academies, aiming for results within six months.
Under his leadership, the National Cricket Academy (NCA) has been activated with structured plans for men, women, and youth categories. A key part of this initiative is a skill development programme involving 15 players, including seasoned stars Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Addressing the inclusion of top-tier players, Aaqib clarified that modern cricket demands consistent technical and fitness evaluations — even for senior professionals.
“Today’s players barely get off-season time for personal improvement,” Aaqib said. “This programme is a chance for them to work on individual skills, which is crucial for long-term performance.”
He also affirmed that selection remains performance-based, stating, “No one is ruled out — whether it’s Babar or anyone else. Performances will decide selections.”
Aaqib raised concerns over the decline of club cricket in Pakistan, blaming it on a shortage of grounds and poor logistics. He emphasized that the PCB must support the few functioning clubs that still produce national-level talent. Reflecting on the past, he noted how strong club, school, and college cricket systems were instrumental in developing players.
“The academy system once groomed regional and district talent effectively. But for over a decade, it was inactive — and we saw the results on the national level,” he stated.
The new academy framework will include continuous training for players across all age groups and formats. Specialized camps will focus on specific roles like spin bowling, fast bowling, wicketkeeping, and opening batting.
Academy locations have been regionally designated for efficiency:
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Karachi: Women’s cricket
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Sialkot: Under-15 players
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Faisalabad: Under-17
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Multan: Under-19
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Lahore (NCA): Emerging, Pakistan A, and national players
He also highlighted the need to incorporate science and technology into training to remain globally competitive. Education on diet, communication, fielding techniques, and physical conditioning are all being integrated.
Regarding media reports of tension with Mohammad Rizwan, Aaqib brushed them off, saying there was mutual respect and collaborative decision-making in team matters.
In closing, Aaqib stressed the need for process continuity: “If we develop 30 Under-15 players today, they’ll rise through the ranks in the next 3–4 years. If the system runs consistently, Pakistan will be well-prepared for future global competitions, including the World Test Championship.”
This marks a hopeful and strategic shift in Pakistan cricket — from grassroots to the international stage.
