Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ramiz Raja believes that their national cricket team will become number one globally through the efforts of club owners.
During a meeting with the owners of clubs falling under the Central Punjab Cricket Association’s jurisdiction, Raja said: “Our national cricket team will become number one through your efforts. So, your success is my success.”
Further speaking on his vision for the revival of cricket at the grassroots level, the Raja praised the efforts of the club owners and termed them “unsung heroes”. The PCB Chairman also promised that the PCB will undertake “unprecedented initiatives” to extend support to the cricket clubs across Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Raja stressed on the need to make the system conducive to helping young cricketers grow.
“Your [cricket club owners] role is of the parents, and in a way, it is beyond that. Give a good environment to players and make every effort to ensure their dreams are fulfilled. This is a big responsibility. Your steps will shape society. There should be no compromise on merit and our system should look after players,” he expressed.
Raja also said that the PCB will extend support to clubs that require equipment and suggested the owners’ priority should be on making quality pitches for the young cricketers.
“In this setup, we will work together to eradicate your problems and difficulties,” he said, adding that they are all very important to me, as your role is very critical. We need quality pitches so players are technically stronger and curating top-quality pitches should be your top priority. The PCB will provide you technical and financial support,” he said adding that the PCB will soon launch a talent hunt programme.
On Monday, Raja had claimed that the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has agreed to stage the 2023 Asia Cup in Pakistan while 2022 edition of the tournament will be held in Sri Lanka.
The PCB chairman said the 2023 ACC Cup in Pakistan would be a 50-over competition while the 2022 edition will be a 20-over tournament.
During the ACC meeting, which was held in the UAE, Raja had also met representatives of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Emirates cricket boards.
However, the ACC is yet to officially announce the development that Pakistan will hosts the 2023 Asia Cup.