[EXCLUSIVE] "Balance both quality and quantity in domestic cricket": Mansoor Amjad

[The Bald Eagle]

In our latest exclusive interview, Mansoor Amjad, former Pakistan all-rounder and Sialkot’s head coach, speaks about Pakistan cricket’s grassroots challenges, grooming future stars, and the balance between domestic structure and player development. From mentoring controversies to nurturing Test talent, Mansoor delivers a candid take on what’s holding Pakistan back—and how to fix it.

Key topics include:

• “Fielding is a grey side of our youngsters” – Mansoor’s critique highlights the persistent issues within Pakistan’s fielding culture, emphasizing the need for young players to improve their skills and focus on this neglected aspect of the game.
• “We see ingredients in him for longer format” – Azan Abbas is being groomed for Test cricket, as his temperament and skillset are seen as more suited to the demands of the longer format compared to the fast-paced T20s.
• “In-field mentoring is something different” –Mansoor highlighted the irreplaceable role of seniors like Shoaib Malik, who offer guidance and experience that go beyond coaching, fostering growth and confidence in younger players during matches.
• “Players are a little insecure” – There is a need to break barriers between coaches and young talent, addressing insecurities that hinder open communication and development.
• “Balance both quality and quantity in domestic cricket” – He mentioned that fixing PCB’s domestic structure is crucial to retaining players by ensuring competitive quality while providing ample opportunities for growth.
• “It’s a big loss if a player leaves his country” – Tackling talent migration to associate nations remains a pressing issue, as losing skilled players impacts both national pride and team strength.

 

[BouncerGuy]

ATM, PCB is focusing on quantity only... They are not interested at all to develop youngsters when guys like Shoaib Malik are playing while azan awais is warming bench.. Or Mehran who sat on bench during most of the recently concluded T20 cup....

 

[Saj]

Good to see a domestic coach trying to tell young players the importance of prioritising 4 day cricket.

The problem is our youngsters only want instant success, instant fame and the riches of T20 cricket.