Naqvi advocates for enhanced domestic cricket structure

 Naqvi advocates for enhanced domestic cricket structure

PCB Chairman Syed Mohsin Naqvi has, in a decisive move to uplift the standard of cricket in Pakistan, emphasized the need for significant improvements in the domestic cricket structure.

The announcement came following an important meeting of the Domestic Season 2024-25 Cricket Structure and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Governing Council, held in Lahore and chaired by Naqvi himself.

Chairman Naqvi stressed the importance of providing more opportunities for domestic cricketers to play and earn a livelihood. He highlighted the necessity for cricketers to be active throughout the year to enhance their skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for national duty. "A robust and competitive domestic cricket structure will help cricketers polish their talent," Naqvi stated.

The PCB chief expressed his desire for a more comprehensive domestic cricket calendar, proposing additional tournaments in T20, one-day internationals, and four-day formats for the 2024-25 season. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket, offering players continuous engagement and growth opportunities.

During the PSL Governing Council meeting, Naqvi assured franchise owners of his full support. "I want all of you to grow and prosper," he told them, emphasizing the significance of the PSL as a premier event in Pakistan's cricketing landscape. Franchise owners echoed this sentiment, describing the HBL PSL as a "jewel in the crown of cricket in Pakistan" and expressed their commitment to its further development.

A major point of discussion was the proposal to increase the number of teams in the PSL from six to eight by 2026. This expansion is seen as a strategic move to enhance the league's competitiveness and reach. Further discussions on this proposal are scheduled for next month.

The PCB proposed a window from April 7 to May 20 for the 2025 edition of the PSL. This scheduling aims to optimize the league's timing within the international cricket calendar, ensuring maximum participation and viewership.

The 2024-25 domestic cricket season is set to commence in September 2023. Naqvi’s directives include the preparation of a detailed schedule that will fill gaps when international players are on national duty, thus maintaining the continuity and competitiveness of domestic tournaments.

Naqvi concluded the meetings by reiterating the critical role of a strong domestic cricket infrastructure in building a larger pool of skilled players for the national team. His comprehensive plan and unwavering support for both domestic cricket and the PSL reflect his commitment to elevating Pakistan cricket to new heights.