Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi Vows All-out Support For Promotion Of Domestic Cricket In KP
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Monday stated that every possible support will be offered for the advancement of cricket, fostering talented players, and strengthening the domestic cricket framework within the province.
Statement
“The doors of Governor House stand open for the promotion of domestic cricket,” he expressed while chairing a meeting dedicated to domestic cricket in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at Governor House, Peshawar.
Briefing by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)
Senior General Manager Domestic Cricket Operations, Usama Sharoon Niazi, informed the Governor about the current status of domestic cricket tournaments, structure, and schedule. He noted that Pakistan comprises 16 domestic cricket regions, including Peshawar, FATA, and Abbottabad in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with departmental cricket tournaments involving eight teams.
Niazi elaborated on the challenges posed by the 2018 policy, which negatively impacted domestic cricket. However, he highlighted a new policy now being implemented to enhance the domestic structure and provide better opportunities for players, attributing these reforms to the initiatives of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Need for Governor’s Patronage
Niazi emphasized the significance of the Governor’s patronage and encouragement for the promotion of domestic cricket in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Proposed Initiatives
Governor Kundi proposed utilizing two grounds in Dera Ismail Khan for domestic cricket and suggested that government departments and institutions in KP establish their own domestic cricket teams. He also underscored the necessity of constructing high-quality cricket stadiums and providing improved facilities, including accommodation for players, to foster the sport’s growth in the province. He requested PCB’s cooperation in this regard.
Support for Players and Cricket Development
Governor Kundi directed that top-notch facilities be ensured for players across all cricket regions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He stressed the importance of building international-standard cricket stadiums in areas outside Peshawar. The Governor assured that the provincial government and all relevant entities would collaborate to promote cricket and continue providing maximum support to offer young players opportunities to advance their careers.
School Cricket Talent Hunt Programme
Regarding the School Cricket Talent Hunt Programme, Niazi reported that 450 schools nationwide had participated in the previous phase, and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had expanded the program threefold. He added that over 1,200 schools from across Pakistan were expected to join the upcoming phase of the initiative.
Niazi appealed to public and private schools to actively participate in the program, highlighting its significant role in promoting cricket and identifying talented players.
