Lahore Qalandars announces third edition of Rising Stars Tournament

[MenInG]

Lahore – 2nd June, 2018: Lahore Qalandars, Pakistan Super League’s most avidly followed franchise, has announced the 3rd Edition of the Rising Stars initiative across Punjab, Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK) and this time including Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa(KPK) and a team for overseas Pakistanis; Pardesi Rising Stars.

This is the first time such a platform is being provided to overseas Pakistanis where they can come forward, showcase their talent and be a part of Lahore Qalandars. Rising Stars got a massive response throughout the last two seasons, garnering over 460k aspiring cricketers from across Punjab and AJK and Lahore Qalandars aims to make this year even bigger.

Lahore Qalandars wishes to transform the local cricketing landscape in the coming months through this development program. In the 3rd Edition of Rising Stars, the horizon expands as Qalandars in addition to Punjab and AJK also aim to provide this promising platform to Gilgit and KPK which would lead on to their participation in Sydney Tournament, PSL and many more opportunities to come.

Also, due to massive demand from overseas Pakistanis and their wish to represent Lahore Qalandars, we have provided them a medium after working on it and coming up with the best IT solutions for over a year, so they can easily register for the trials.

Fawad Rana, Chairman Lahore Qalandars: “Rising Stars has changed the lives of many talented youngsters and showcased their incredible talent to the world. We are back with the 3rd edition and hope to make it bigger than before which is why we would be conducting trials in Gilgit and KPK along with Punjab and AJK. Also, due to a huge demand from overseas Pakistanis and their wish to represent Lahore Qalandars, this year we are also including a team of overseas Pakistanis which would be called Pardesi Rising Stars. I’m very excited to introduce such an initiative for our overseas Pakistanis and I’m hopeful for a great response.”

Director Cricket Operations & Head Coach Aqib Javed says,” Throughout the last two seasons we have seen some incredible talent and this time we are we are making it bigger by including overseas Pakistanis. I’m hopeful we will find many future stars in this season of Rising Stars.”

“This initiative is a great opportunity for youngsters in Pakistan. Its wonderful to see how many lives have been changed through Lahore Qalandars’ Rising Stars Program and I hope it continues to grow in the future,” says Mentor Lahore Qalandars, Shoaib Akhtar.

Advisor Lahore Qalandars, Inzaman-ul-Haq says,” I’m very happy to be a part of such and initiative which is giving a promising platform to our talented youngsters and now to overseas Pakistanis as well. I hope this initiative can continue to develop cricket in Pakistan.”

Teams included in the 3rd edition of Rising Stars are: Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, KPK, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Lahore & Pardesi Rising Stars.

 

[Slog]

Most useless event going around

Three years and the only players it has thrown up are mediocre to the boot. And to make it even worse, the so-called best finds of the event were players who are already part of the domestic system

 

[IAJ]

Have they found any new talent?

 

[MenInG]

 

[mak36]

Let's see if this will be more than just a PR exercise this year.

In previous years, LQ have been more interested in gimmicks than genuine development. As a result a lot of the decent players missed out.

If they fail to learn their lesson I get the feeling they will lose a lot of goodwill.

 

[BunnyRabbit]

Although Rising Stars is a good initiative, but LQ is only a showoff hoopla. Which franchise has 7-8 coaches/advisors etc around their squad?
Fawad Rana is only interested in making others happy rather than focus on development of his team.

 

[Mohsin123]

Seriously what is the point of this tournament? If you are not going to induct new talent from here then why even bother having it?

 

[ataullah]

Trials on going at Gilgit. Huge turnout apparently.

 

[Abdullah719]

LAHORE QALANDARS PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM RECEIVE OVERWHELMING RESPONSE IN GILGIT AS THOUSANDS OF PARTICIPANTS POUR IN FOR THE TALENT HUNT

Gilgit: In its 3rd season, PSL’s franchise Lahore Qalandars on its quest to hunt for heroes among ordinary street cricketers began its journey with the crown jewel of Pakistan the City of Gilgit, where an overwhelming crowd of more than 6 thousand young aspirants poured from surrounding districts to display their talent, skills and interest to be a part of Pakistan’s mainstream domestic cricket in City Park.

Player Development Programme initiative by Lahore Qalandars is in line with the franchise’s commitment to promote a fair pulsating sports culture in the country where the franchise provides pathways for identification of young players at grass root level and nurtures their progress to the top game.

With inclusion of Gilgit Baltistan in Player Development Program, for the first time in Pakistan, the franchise scouted top talent from the valleys of Gilgit. The team on ground included Cricketing legends Inzamam-ul-Haq, Shoaib Akhtar, Aqib Javed and Yasir Shah. Having these motivating personalities on the field, interacting with the participants, sharing tips and tricks motivated the aspirants to up their game and try and impress the coaching panel for inclusion in Gilgit Qalandars. Minister Tourism Sports and Culture Gilgit-Baltistan Mr. Fida Khan and local Polo player Bulbul Jan nicknamed the king of Polo also came in their support for Lahore Qalandars initiative to bring cricket to Gilgit Baltistan. Secretary Interior Mr. Javed Akram, DC Gilgit Capt. (R) Sami-Ullah Farooq and their teams extended their full cooperation for the trials including security for the purpose.

List of Selected players from Gilgit include:

Asad Amin, Afaq Afridi, G Rehman, Kaleemullah, Awais Ahmed, M Nadeem, M Mubasher, M Sudaiz, Shoaib, Aswad, Mehroz, Ahsan Ali, Inayat, Asghar Ali, Yawar Bashir, Ikram, M Arfan.

The Lahore Qalandars team is now headed to their 2nd stop at Muzaffarabad on 9th August to continue the hunt for the best nascent talent in the country. The franchise will conduct trials at 11 cities across Punjab, KPK, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan to complete the formation of eight teams for a tournament from 31st August till 9th September.

 

[mak36]

LAHORE QALANDARS PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM RECEIVE OVERWHELMING RESPONSE IN GILGIT AS THOUSANDS OF PARTICIPANTS POUR IN FOR THE TALENT HUNT

Gilgit: In its 3rd season, PSL’s franchise Lahore Qalandars on its quest to hunt for heroes among ordinary street cricketers began its journey with the crown jewel of Pakistan the City of Gilgit, where an overwhelming crowd of more than 6 thousand young aspirants poured from surrounding districts to display their talent, skills and interest to be a part of Pakistan’s mainstream domestic cricket in City Park.

Player Development Programme initiative by Lahore Qalandars is in line with the franchise’s commitment to promote a fair pulsating sports culture in the country where the franchise provides pathways for identification of young players at grass root level and nurtures their progress to the top game.

With inclusion of Gilgit Baltistan in Player Development Program, for the first time in Pakistan, the franchise scouted top talent from the valleys of Gilgit. The team on ground included Cricketing legends Inzamam-ul-Haq, Shoaib Akhtar, Aqib Javed and Yasir Shah. Having these motivating personalities on the field, interacting with the participants, sharing tips and tricks motivated the aspirants to up their game and try and impress the coaching panel for inclusion in Gilgit Qalandars. Minister Tourism Sports and Culture Gilgit-Baltistan Mr. Fida Khan and local Polo player Bulbul Jan nicknamed the king of Polo also came in their support for Lahore Qalandars initiative to bring cricket to Gilgit Baltistan. Secretary Interior Mr. Javed Akram, DC Gilgit Capt. (R) Sami-Ullah Farooq and their teams extended their full cooperation for the trials including security for the purpose.

List of Selected players from Gilgit include:

Asad Amin, Afaq Afridi, G Rehman, Kaleemullah, Awais Ahmed, M Nadeem, M Mubasher, M Sudaiz, Shoaib, Aswad, Mehroz, Ahsan Ali, Inayat, Asghar Ali, Yawar Bashir, Ikram, M Arfan.

The Lahore Qalandars team is now headed to their 2nd stop at Muzaffarabad on 9th August to continue the hunt for the best nascent talent in the country. The franchise will conduct trials at 11 cities across Punjab, KPK, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan to complete the formation of eight teams for a tournament from 31st August till 9th September.

Are they just recycling players? I'm sure there was a Kaleemullah and M Nadeem last year, although they could just be namesakes etc.

 

[AssassinatedDevil]

LAHORE QALANDARS PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM RECEIVE OVERWHELMING RESPONSE IN GILGIT AS THOUSANDS OF PARTICIPANTS POUR IN FOR THE TALENT HUNT

Gilgit: In its 3rd season, PSL’s franchise Lahore Qalandars on its quest to hunt for heroes among ordinary street cricketers began its journey with the crown jewel of Pakistan the City of Gilgit, where an overwhelming crowd of more than 6 thousand young aspirants poured from surrounding districts to display their talent, skills and interest to be a part of Pakistan’s mainstream domestic cricket in City Park.

Player Development Programme initiative by Lahore Qalandars is in line with the franchise’s commitment to promote a fair pulsating sports culture in the country where the franchise provides pathways for identification of young players at grass root level and nurtures their progress to the top game.

With inclusion of Gilgit Baltistan in Player Development Program, for the first time in Pakistan, the franchise scouted top talent from the valleys of Gilgit. The team on ground included Cricketing legends Inzamam-ul-Haq, Shoaib Akhtar, Aqib Javed and Yasir Shah. Having these motivating personalities on the field, interacting with the participants, sharing tips and tricks motivated the aspirants to up their game and try and impress the coaching panel for inclusion in Gilgit Qalandars. Minister Tourism Sports and Culture Gilgit-Baltistan Mr. Fida Khan and local Polo player Bulbul Jan nicknamed the king of Polo also came in their support for Lahore Qalandars initiative to bring cricket to Gilgit Baltistan. Secretary Interior Mr. Javed Akram, DC Gilgit Capt. (R) Sami-Ullah Farooq and their teams extended their full cooperation for the trials including security for the purpose.

List of Selected players from Gilgit include:

Asad Amin, Afaq Afridi, G Rehman, Kaleemullah, Awais Ahmed, M Nadeem, M Mubasher, M Sudaiz, Shoaib, Aswad, Mehroz, Ahsan Ali, Inayat, Asghar Ali, Yawar Bashir, Ikram, M Arfan.

The Lahore Qalandars team is now headed to their 2nd stop at Muzaffarabad on 9th August to continue the hunt for the best nascent talent in the country. The franchise will conduct trials at 11 cities across Punjab, KPK, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan to complete the formation of eight teams for a tournament from 31st August till 9th September.

 

[ataullah]

13-year-old ambidextrous bowler impresses at Muzaffarabad trials

It looks like Lahore Qalandars have already started the search of their new star as the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise landed in Muzaffarabad for trails on thursday.

It was a lucky day for young Hammad Baig, as he got the attention of batting great Inzamam-ul-Haq and legendary pacer Aaqib Javed. Hammad, a student of grade seven, was among the aspiring Qalandars who appeared at the open trials in Muzaffarabad.

“It was very motivating for me to bowl in front of Inzamam. He encouraged me and suggested me to bowl more with my right arm,” said Hammad.

He is the second ambidextrous bowler to be spotted by Lahore Qalandars, after Yasir Jan was picked by the franchise during the first edition of their widely acclaimed players development programme.

The 13-year-old is the youngest among his four siblings. At the moment, he is playing cricket at club level and will continue to learn from every opportunity. His age might be a hurdle for Hammad to be part of a team from Kashmir, but Lahore Qalandars are determined to train him.

“He can become a very good cricketer in the next few years. He is too young at the moment but we will take him under our umbrella to train him and transform him into a pro,” said Aaqib, Director of Cricket at Lahore Qalandars.

https://www.brecorder.com/2018/08/09/433243/teen-impresses-pakistan-legends-at-qalandars-trails/

 

[Amirforpresident]

Everything Aqib tocuhes turns into dust

 

[anakwalajinn]

Awesome news, but not really a fan of hyping up someone being "ambidextrous".

There was another guy who was sent to England to train a few years ago.

Whatever happened to him?

 

[mak36]

Not this again...

 

[sabz86]

Overseas Pakistanis? is the expectation for them to fly in for the trial on the 18th? interesting concept.

 

[mak36]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">86.4 mph! <br><br>A super talented fast bowler, Wasif Ali discovered in Muzaffarabad! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KashmirBanaQalandar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KashmirBanaQalandar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/QalandarsKaPakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#QalandarsKaPakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayerDevelopmentProgram?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayerDevelopmentProgram</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DamaDamMast?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DamaDamMast</a> <a href="https://t.co/5cJLyiJbq4">pic.twitter.com/5cJLyiJbq4</a></p>— Lahore Qalandars&#55356;&#57295; (@lahoreqalandars) <a href="https://twitter.com/lahoreqalandars/status/1027525427865247745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[InziRules]

This is such a sideshow. A lot of people won't call it out because they look like they're attempting to find talent, but tell me, what does happen to these players? Are they mentored? Are they even the best talents?

Last year, the only reason the guy was hyped was because he was ambidextrous. He will never play for Pakistan, he might never even play for Qalandars. This is not how you find or nurture youth. If they were serious, they'd have training camps set up for long intervals, find clubs for these "talents" that they found and help develop them.

Now this is not their responsibility, but then again, if you say you're doing talent hunts, do them properly instead of trying to look good while doing nothing.

 

[Savak]

Fawad Rana is too emotional in his decision making. How he is persisting with Aqib as coach for Lahore Qalandars is beyond me after 3 disasterous seasons? Is he running an actual franchise or just having fun and merry?

 

[Savak]

This is such a sideshow. A lot of people won't call it out because they look like they're attempting to find talent, but tell me, what does happen to these players? Are they mentored? Are they even the best talents?

Last year, the only reason the guy was hyped was because he was ambidextrous. He will never play for Pakistan, he might never even play for Qalandars. This is not how you find or nurture youth. If they were serious, they'd have training camps set up for long intervals, find clubs for these "talents" that they found and help develop them.

Now this is not their responsibility, but then again, if you say you're doing talent hunts, do them properly instead of trying to look good while doing nothing.

Lol, what happened to Yasir Jan?

 

[Savak]

I find it funny to see Inzi and Shoaib not only working together in retirement but also to be at ease and merry in each other's company. I remember their rivalry from 2003 to 2007 and how Inzi despised him and wanted him out of the team at all costs

 

[MenInG]

AJK: On its quest to create heroes among ordinary street cricketers the PSL’s franchise Lahore Qalandars made its second stop at Kashmir, where the franchise was received by thousands of young aspirants eager to showcase their talent. The franchise organized a series of bilateral trials at Muzaffarabad and Mirpur to hunt for undiscovered cricket talent in Kashmir for the 3rd season of its Player Development Program.

Player Development Programme initiative by Lahore Qalandars is in line with the franchise’s commitment to promote a fair pulsating sports culture in the country where the franchise provides pathways for identification of young players at grass root level and nurtures their progress to the top game weaving million hearts into a single thread of cricket.

Last year from Kashmir, the franchise discovered Salman Irshad, a relatively unknown name until last year, who caught the eye of Mr. Aqib Javed, Director Cricket Operation Lahore Qalandars when he bowled at a thundering speed of 90mph in the trails held at Muzaffarabad. The young talent has gone on to be a part of Lahore Qalandars squad in PSL 3 and has earned a contract with renowned Australian Cricket Club, Hawkesbury Cricket Club, much to the credit of Lahore Qalandars’ continuous efforts in the young player’s development.

This year, once again, the franchise scouted top talent from AJK. 23 young guns were selected from the first round of trials at Muzaffarabad who traveled to Mirpur for their final selection in Kashmir Qalandars. The team on ground included Cricketing legends like Inzamam-ul-Haq, Aqib Javed and Yasir Shah. These legends not only interacted and motivated the young participants on field but also visited Kashmir Orphan Relief Trust along with the management team of Lahore Qalandars on the sidelines of the trials in continuation of Lahore Qalandars’ mission to bring top game to where there are no opportunities.

The Prime Minister AJK, Raja Farooq Haider has lauded Lahore Qalandars efforts for the development of cricket in Kashmir while Minister Sports, Youth and Culture Ch Saeed, expressed the hope that the player development program will allow thousands of young Kashmiris to grow and develop their skills and enter the main arena of Pakistani cricket.
List of Selected players from AJK include:
Abdul Shakoor
Salman Irshad
Raja Farhan Khan
Ehtasham Sultan
Inzamam ul Haq
Rashid Naseer
Naveed Malik
Khizer Shah
Yasir Khan
Abdul Rehman
Haider Ali
Amir Jamal
Zaway Hikmat
M. Zubair
Waqar Ahmed

The Lahore Qalandars team is now headed to KPK. The franchise will make its next stop at Abbottabad on 12, to be followed by trails in Mardan on 13th. The franchise will conclude its KPK talent hunt journey at Jamurd on the Independence Day to not only celebrate the return of peace to the tribal area but to also provide better avenues of integration to its youth via cricket. The Ceo Lahore Qalandars Mr. Atif Rana is hopeful that the trails in Jamrud will spread the Qalandars message of peace, love and connectivity.

 

[Slog]

This is one of the most pointless exercises in history of cricket

 

[Abdullah719]

AJK: On its quest to create heroes among ordinary street cricketers the PSL’s franchise Lahore Qalandars made its second stop at Kashmir, where the franchise was received by thousands of young aspirants eager to showcase their talent. The franchise organized a series of bilateral trials at Muzaffarabad and Mirpur to hunt for undiscovered cricket talent in Kashmir for the 3rd season of its Player Development Program.

Player Development Programme initiative by Lahore Qalandars is in line with the franchise’s commitment to promote a fair pulsating sports culture in the country where the franchise provides pathways for identification of young players at grass root level and nurtures their progress to the top game weaving million hearts into a single thread of cricket.

Last year from Kashmir, the franchise discovered Salman Irshad, a relatively unknown name until last year, who caught the eye of Mr. Aqib Javed, Director Cricket Operation Lahore Qalandars when he bowled at a thundering speed of 90mph in the trails held at Muzaffarabad. The young talent has gone on to be a part of Lahore Qalandars squad in PSL 3 and has earned a contract with renowned Australian Cricket Club, Hawkesbury Cricket Club, much to the credit of Lahore Qalandars’ continuous efforts in the young player’s development.

This year, once again, the franchise scouted top talent from AJK. 23 young guns were selected from the first round of trials at Muzaffarabad who traveled to Mirpur for their final selection in Kashmir Qalandars. The team on ground included Cricketing legends like Inzamam-ul-Haq, Aqib Javed and Yasir Shah. These legends not only interacted and motivated the young participants on field but also visited Kashmir Orphan Relief Trust along with the management team of Lahore Qalandars on the sidelines of the trials in continuation of Lahore Qalandars’ mission to bring top game to where there are no opportunities.

The Prime Minister AJK, Raja Farooq Haider has lauded Lahore Qalandars efforts for the development of cricket in Kashmir while Minister Sports, Youth and Culture Ch Saeed, expressed the hope that the player development program will allow thousands of young Kashmiris to grow and develop their skills and enter the main arena of Pakistani cricket.
List of Selected players from AJK include:
Abdul Shakoor
Salman Irshad
Raja Farhan Khan
Ehtasham Sultan
Inzamam ul Haq
Rashid Naseer
Naveed Malik
Khizer Shah
Yasir Khan
Abdul Rehman
Haider Ali
Amir Jamal
Zaway Hikmat
M. Zubair
Waqar Ahmed

The Lahore Qalandars team is now headed to KPK. The franchise will make its next stop at Abbottabad on 12, to be followed by trails in Mardan on 13th. The franchise will conclude its KPK talent hunt journey at Jamurd on the Independence Day to not only celebrate the return of peace to the tribal area but to also provide better avenues of integration to its youth via cricket. The Ceo Lahore Qalandars Mr. Atif Rana is hopeful that the trails in Jamrud will spread the Qalandars message of peace, love and connectivity.

They have 'discovered' Ehtisham Sultan and Salman Irshad [MENTION=142670]mak36[/MENTION]

 

[mak36]

They have 'discovered' Ehtisham Sultan and Salman Irshad [MENTION=142670]mak36[/MENTION]

This is too funny.

They have also 'discovered' Raja Farhan Khan (legspinner). I wouldn't be surprised if the Inzamam Ul Haq they've mentioned is the one and only

Also, yesterday they were promoting a guy called Wasif Ali who bowled one at 86.4 mph and he doesn't even make the Kashmir squad.

Empty vessel makes the most noise, and that is proving to be the case here. IU are the only ones who seem to do actual youth investment.

 

[Abdullah719]

 

[Abdullah719]

View attachment 83275

The man who dismissed Brian Lara

 

[mak36]

The man who dismissed Brian Lara

New talent?

 

[Abdullah719]

New talent?

He will be 'discovered' during the Multan leg

 

[Titan24]

This is too funny.

They have also 'discovered' Raja Farhan Khan (legspinner). I wouldn't be surprised if the Inzamam Ul Haq they've mentioned is the one and only

Also, yesterday they were promoting a guy called Wasif Ali who bowled one at 86.4 mph and he doesn't even make the Kashmir squad.

Empty vessel makes the most noise, and that is proving to be the case here. IU are the only ones who seem to do actual youth investment.

Yes IU is smart and they pick players from already developed U19 squads and domestic teams.

But, credit to LQ that they want to find new players as it requires a lot lf hard work and you wont necessarily get what you look for.

 

[mak36]

But, credit to LQ that they want to find new players as it requires a lot lf hard work and you wont necessarily get what you look for.

No they don't. That's my point. LQ are all about PR and making noise rather than doing work of substance. They are literally recycling players- half those selected aren't even from the areas they are representing. The few players they can claim to have discovered they don't even bother investing in properly.

 

[mak36]

IU's approach is much better. They don't claim to "discover" talent but what they do is identify prospects from youth cricket and then coach them, build their team around them and give them genuine chances in PSL. I'm not saying it's perfect but they do the most out of any franchise and it shows in their result.

LQ by contrast are only interested in creating headlines.

 

[hadi123]

Abbottabad: Lahore Qalandars Player Development program made its stop at Abbottabad where scores of aspirants and fans welcomed the franchise with chants of ‘KPK Bana Qalandar’.

In its third season the most avidly followed PSL franchise, Lahore Qalandars, has expanded the horizons of its Player Development Program to include Gilgit and KPK in addition to Punjab and Kashmir in a quest to completely transform the national cricketing landscape and take development opportunities to localities where there are none.

Thousands of young aspirants turned up at the trials with a single chant of inclusion in KPK Qalandars.
The trials in Abbottabad concluded with coaching panel finalising 23 players who will now travel to Jamrud for their final seclection in KPK Qalandars.

The coaching panel, headed by Aqib Javed and Inzamam-ul-Haq was joined by Pakistan’s legend in making Fakhar Zaman, veteran bowler Sohail Khan and Yasir Shah. The KPK trials will be held in three stages - Abbottabad, Mardan, with a final stop at Jamrud on the Independence Day.

 

[AssassinatedDevil]

<div style="width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.250%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/s/burbq/wslwas" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="100%" allowfullscreen style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div>.

 

[MenInG]

Lahore Qalandars Player Development Program Makes its second stop at Mardan KPK

Mardan: After a successful trial hunt at Abbottabad, Lahore Qalandars Player Development program reached Mardan where thousands of aspiring cricketers gathered once again to impress Qalandars coaching panel.

The efforts of Lahore Qalandars to take development and career opportunities to far flung areas were acknowledged by ZXMCO Motorcycles who joined hands with the franchise to support KPK Qalandars.

Deputy Commissioner and Additional Deputy Commissioner Mardan were also present at the venue in support of the budding cricketers. Speaking at the occasion, the Additional Deputy Commissioner praised Qalandars Player Development Program and appreciated the role the franchise has played in reinvigorating domestic cricket where within a short span of 3 years the franchise has given the country players like Shaheen Afridi, Salman Irshad and Fakhar Zaman.

The trials in Mardan concluded with the coaching panel finalising 22 players who will now travel to Jamrud for their final seclection in KPK Qalandars.

The coaching panel, headed by 92s World Cup hero Aqib Javed and bating mastero Inzamam-ul-Haq was joined by Pakistan’s legend in making Fakhar Zaman, upcoming bowling sensation Shaheen Afridi, bowling gun Sohail Khan and talented veteran Yasir Shah. The heroes interacted with the aspiring cricketers sharing tips and evaluating their techniques. Addressing the youngsters at his home ground of Mardan, Fakhar Zaman shared that the player development program is bringing growth and development opportunities to areas that are rich in potential but lack facilities. He hoped that many like him would get the chance to translate their potential into rewarding careers via the platform of Lahore Qalandars. On his playing in PSL Squad, Shaheen Afridi shared that he learned a great deal by playing next to the big names of Cricket thanks to Lahore Qalandars . He praised the unique opportunity the franchise provided him to make a career in cricket.

The final stop of quest for talent in KPK will be Jamrud on the Independence Day where the franchise aims to find young guns that will grow to become the face of Pakistan’s cricketing future.

 

[Shaka81]

No they don't. That's my point. LQ are all about PR and making noise rather than doing work of substance. They are literally recycling players- half those selected aren't even from the areas they are representing. The few players they can claim to have discovered they don't even bother investing in properly.

It's called expanding their brand and football teams do the same thing. They have "soccer schools" all over the world with the pretence of finding youth prospects but in reality it gets people talking about them. LQ keep carrying out these talent hunts and they'll cement their place as the most popular PSL team, which equals more exposure and money for the owners.

 

[mak36]

It's called expanding their brand and football teams do the same thing. They have "soccer schools" all over the world with the pretence of finding youth prospects but in reality it gets people talking about them.

Thanks for agreeing with what I said.

 

[Major]

Most useless event going around

Three years and the only players it has thrown up are mediocre to the boot. And to make it even worse, the so-called best finds of the event were players who are already part of the domestic system

its mostly just PR sake, and they are quite successfully. Lahore Qalanders are the most loved and famous team in Pakistan.

 

[MenInG]

Cake cutting ceremony at Jamrud to celebrate Independence Day.

 

[ataullah]

Best thing they've done is taking youngsters to Australia for matches and much needed exposure. Apart from that nothing of value

 

[shariqnoor]

It wouldn't be wholly unjust to have the Lahore Qalandars Rising Stars Tournament dismissed by people as despite being its third season, we have yet to see any substantial reward for Pakistan cricket through this exercise.

However, my view is a bit different. Not everything in life has to be measured with how the final output has shaped up. Same goes for this tournament. We shouldn't look upon this as something that by all means SHOULD give us international level players. Sometimes the process in itself is worth more than the output and this tournament is a prime example of it.

I for one applaud the initiative taken by the Lahore franchise to have this year-upon-year in order to find budding cricketers. What this initiative has done is made cricket accessible to a LOT of young players who are looking for a breakthrough in life. Come to think of it, with the Pakistan cricketing structure as it is, cricket is inaccessible to places like Gilgit Baltistan. A 15 year old boy residing in GB 99 times out of 100 would not be able to make a career out of cricket just because he doesn't have the know-how or the contacts or the opportunity to move on and break through to the next step. This tournament provides a lifeline to him because he can go to trials, impress selectors, and God willing make it to a club team and then to domestics. Just because he doesn't make it to the international squad, it doesn't mean that the tournament itself has failed. In fact, the very opposite has occurred. It has given that guy a way to make a living. How can we disorient ourselves from this?

Salman Irshad, a product of this Rising Stars tournament, says that his life has changed because of this. He recently got a 5 wicket haul in Australia, played in the PSL, got Misbah out first ball. Isn't this the stuff of dreams? How can we call this tournament a PR exercise when it actually made a dream of Salman Irshad a reality? Should we dismiss this tournament if Salman doesn't make it to the Pakistan team?

I don't know much about the selection criteria of this Rising Stars tournament and whether players get selected on merit or not (hopefully they are), but what I do know is that this tournament is a God-send for all those who are deprived of opportunities. We have to dismount ourselves from our high horses and view this initiative through the lens of the deprived and only then will we see how great this tournament is.

I only have good wishes for this and I commend the Lahore franchise for reaching out to places where cricketing opportunities are so rare. It would be absolutely awesome if other franchises start this as well. The more there are, the more chances young players would have to showcase their talents.

 

[MenInG]

Lahore Qalandars paint Jamrud in colors of Pakistan

JAMRUD: Pakistan Super League franchise Lahore Qalandars player development program made its last stop at in Jamrud in Khyber District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the Independence Day. The franchise blended the bonding spirits of cricket with the festivities of Independence Day at Jamrud Cricket Stadium as the trials kicked off to the sound of national anthem and chants of Pakistan Zindabad echoing through the grounds.

Thousands of aspiring Qalandars packed the Jamrud Sports Complex to show off their skills and meet their favorite cricketing legends. Each came with the hope of being selected in KPK Qalandars and getting a chance to develop a professional career in cricket through the promising platform of Qalandars Player Development Initiative.

Thousands of aspiring cricketers later joined the coaches of Lahore Qalandars and its management in the Independence Day festivities as they cut a 100 pounds cake to celebrate the creation of the beloved homeland and restoration of peace in the tribal areas. The team on ground wore Pakistan’s traditional white shalwar qameez instead of their regular cricket kits to evaluate the contestants. The management of Lahore Qalandars was joined by owner of KPK Qalandars and MD ZXMCO Motorcycles Mr. Asif Khan, Pakistan chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, Spinning Genius Yasir Shah, and Pakistan’s legend in making Fakhar Zaman, Qalandars Find and budding cricketer Shaheen Afridi and veteran fast bowler Sohail Khan.

Speaking at the occasion Chairman and CEO Lahore Qalandars Qalandars expressed their delight over the huge turnout in Jamrud for the trials.

“It’s heartwarming to see the passion of these young Qalandars who have suffered so much in the past. Their spirits are commendable. It is warming to see how their passion for cricket is unwavering. To see different people united in their love for cricket and the witness the hope in their faces for a brighter rewarding future of Pakistan’s domestic cricket is what we wanted to create through our development program ,” Atif Rana CEO Lahore Qalandars remarked.

“This area was hit by violence and unrest but thanks to the efforts and sacrifices of our institutes and people of Pakistan things have returned back to normal and now the time has come to provide more meaningful engagements to the youth of this area. We felt bringing our Player Development Program to promote cricket in this region was one way to fulfill Qalandar’s philosophy of love and peace ,” said the Chairman Lahore Qalandars, Rana Fawad.

The Qalandars’ initiative to include trial areas in the third season of its Player Development Program were praised by Riaz Afridi, member of the coaching panel and Pakistan’s international cricketer hailing from the same area, who said that this was a great initiative to highlight the talent tribal belt holds and bring these multi-talented budding cricketers to the limelight.
“I am delighted and excited for Lahore Qalandars initiative to include KPK in its Player Development Program. I look forward to see the young guns that these coaches have selected in my team to go on to make Pakistan’s name in the international cricketing circuits. I have high hopes from these youngsters and together we will work with Lahore Qalandars to promote and nurture cricket talent in this area as well. I feel proud already to see the the drive of these young KPK Qalandars', said the owner of KPK Qalandars MD ZXMCO Motorcycles Mr. Asif Khan.

The shortlisted players from KPK include:

Naseer Ullah Khan, Atazhz khan, Junaid Afridi, said rehman, kizer qadeer, sajjad Ibrahim, Mohammad Bilal, Sadam Afridi, Shahab, Mohammad Amir, Habib ullah, Mohammad Ashraf, Maaz Khan, Umer khan, Gohar Ali, and Sajjad.
After shortlisting teams in Gilgit,, AJK and KPK, the franchise will now move to Punjab making its next stop at Pindi Cricket Stadium on 18th and 19th August in their hunt for a Pindi Qalandars team for the player development program tournament.

 

[mak36]

Hope offspinner Ahmer Ajaz from Layyah is selected again.

 

[Hedz]

Awesome news, but not really a fan of hyping up someone being "ambidextrous".

There was another guy who was sent to England to train a few years ago.

Whatever happened to him?

Still training with English coaches
Obviously it will take some time for him to be close to being a finished product
Hope all the hard work and effort pays off

 

[Hedz]

This is such a sideshow. A lot of people won't call it out because they look like they're attempting to find talent, but tell me, what does happen to these players? Are they mentored? Are they even the best talents?

Last year, the only reason the guy was hyped was because he was ambidextrous. He will never play for Pakistan, he might never even play for Qalandars. This is not how you find or nurture youth. If they were serious, they'd have training camps set up for long intervals, find clubs for these "talents" that they found and help develop them.

Now this is not their responsibility, but then again, if you say you're doing talent hunts, do them properly instead of trying to look good while doing nothing.

The ambidextrous bowler was from the first edition of the rising stars, he is being coached in England
Last years players trained with Lahore Qalandars before the PSL, one player played for Lahore Qalandars
Players are taken to Australia for a tournament and many have signed up with Australian teams

I’m not saying what they are doing is perfect, but you have missed some of their work
Also I prefer their activity in the off season compared to many of the other teams who sit there doing nothing

 

[Hedz]

It wouldn't be wholly unjust to have the Lahore Qalandars Rising Stars Tournament dismissed by people as despite being its third season, we have yet to see any substantial reward for Pakistan cricket through this exercise.

However, my view is a bit different. Not everything in life has to be measured with how the final output has shaped up. Same goes for this tournament. We shouldn't look upon this as something that by all means SHOULD give us international level players. Sometimes the process in itself is worth more than the output and this tournament is a prime example of it.

I for one applaud the initiative taken by the Lahore franchise to have this year-upon-year in order to find budding cricketers. What this initiative has done is made cricket accessible to a LOT of young players who are looking for a breakthrough in life. Come to think of it, with the Pakistan cricketing structure as it is, cricket is inaccessible to places like Gilgit Baltistan. A 15 year old boy residing in GB 99 times out of 100 would not be able to make a career out of cricket just because he doesn't have the know-how or the contacts or the opportunity to move on and break through to the next step. This tournament provides a lifeline to him because he can go to trials, impress selectors, and God willing make it to a club team and then to domestics. Just because he doesn't make it to the international squad, it doesn't mean that the tournament itself has failed. In fact, the very opposite has occurred. It has given that guy a way to make a living. How can we disorient ourselves from this?

Salman Irshad, a product of this Rising Stars tournament, says that his life has changed because of this. He recently got a 5 wicket haul in Australia, played in the PSL, got Misbah out first ball. Isn't this the stuff of dreams? How can we call this tournament a PR exercise when it actually made a dream of Salman Irshad a reality? Should we dismiss this tournament if Salman doesn't make it to the Pakistan team?

I don't know much about the selection criteria of this Rising Stars tournament and whether players get selected on merit or not (hopefully they are), but what I do know is that this tournament is a God-send for all those who are deprived of opportunities. We have to dismount ourselves from our high horses and view this initiative through the lens of the deprived and only then will we see how great this tournament is.

I only have good wishes for this and I commend the Lahore franchise for reaching out to places where cricketing opportunities are so rare. It would be absolutely awesome if other franchises start this as well. The more there are, the more chances young players would have to showcase their talents.

Exactly, shouldn’t ignore their effort just cos the final product is missing

 

[mak36]

Exactly, shouldn’t ignore their effort just cos the final product is missing

Lol the criticism isn't because the final product is missing.

 

[Hedz]

Lol the criticism isn't because the final product is missing.

So what is the criticism exactly?

 

[mak36]

So what is the criticism exactly?

See above.

There is no substance to what they are doing. It's marketing to create hype.

 

[mak36]

[MENTION=143363]Hedz[/MENTION]

If they properly develop the players they have actually discovered (not ones who had already played domestic like Salman Irshad) then fair enough. I am talking about the likes of Haris Rauf, Ehtesham Sultan, Ahmer Ajaz etc.

That would be great to see. But at the moment their actions suggest otherwise.

 

[mak36]

Ameer Hamza and Mamoon Riaz are two more they have discovered. So that's at least five players.

The problem is there is no follow up. Ideally they would set up an academy and properly develop them year-round. If they did that then LQ would flourish.

 

[Hedz]

[MENTION=143363]Hedz[/MENTION]

If they properly develop the players they have actually discovered (not ones who had already played domestic like Salman Irshad) then fair enough. I am talking about the likes of Haris Rauf, Ehtesham Sultan, Ahmer Ajaz etc.

That would be great to see. But at the moment their actions suggest otherwise.

Yh I understand what you mean and hopefully in the coming seasons they can improve on that

 

[mak36]

[MENTION=143363]Hedz[/MENTION]

If they properly develop the players they have actually discovered (not ones who had already played domestic cricket like Salman Irshad) then fair enough. I am talking about the likes of Haris Rauf, Ehtesham Sultan, Ahmer Ajaz etc.

That would be great to see. But at the moment their actions suggest otherwise.

Ameer Hamza and Mamoon Riaz are two more they have discovered. So that's at least five players.

The problem is there is no follow up. Ideally they would set up an academy and properly develop them year-round. If they did that then LQ would flourish.

[MENTION=141811]shariqnoor[/MENTION] see above posts.

Add Farzan Raja too.

 

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Waqar Younis and Mushtaq Ahmed came to the trials venue to support Lahore Qalandars Player Development Program initiative.

 

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Lahore Qalandars bring star studded talent hunt to Rawalpindi

Rawalpindi: Lahore Qalandars, Pakistan Super League’s franchise, after conducting trials in Gilgit, AJK and KP made its first stop in Punjab at the home ground of Rawalpindi Express, at a city that has given Pakistan several legends. The open trials in Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium attracted thousands of talented young fans and aspiring cricketers who welcomed the team of Lahore Qalandars and their favorite stars with an unparalleled zeal and fervor. Even the rain could not diminish the spirits of these aspiring Qalandars as they strove to prove their mantle before the star-studded coaching panel of Lahore Qalandars. Director Cricket Operations of Qalandars and Pakistan’s 92 world cup hero Aaqib Javed was joined by Chief Selector of Pakistan National Team Inzamam-ul-Haq, reverse swing wizard Waqar Younis, veteran cricketer Mushtaq Ahmad and Pindi’s own bowling express Shoaib Akhtar as these stars along with the coaching panel tried out aspiring Qalandars.

Over the course of two days, Lahore Qalandars will select 16 aspiring cricketers from Rawalpindi to make Rawalpindi Qalandars. These selected players will have a chance to make a career in cricket through the platform of Lahore Qalandars. Player Development program is one of the franchise’s initiative to rekindle each Pakistan’s affair with international cricket and provide an open platform to each talented young Pakistan to be the next big name in cricket. The franchise looks forward to transform the local cricketing landscape through this talent hunt and development program.

In the 3rd Edition of Player Development Program, the franchise expanded its horizons as it conducted its talent hunt in Gilgit and KP in addition to Punjab and AJK providing the young guns in far flung areas a chance to shine. The Player Development Platform lead these youngsters to participate in Sydney Tournament, Emirates Cup and PSL.

Fawad Rana, Chairman Lahore Qalandars: “Player Development Program has changed the lives of many talented youngsters and given street cricketers a chance to showcase their talent to the cricketing world. Each year the turnout and the amazing talent found on the streets across Pakistan amazes us. We set out with a dream to provide hope and fair opportunities to each talented young Pakistani and I am filled with optimism for the future of these players”

Teams included in the 3rd edition of Player Development Program are: Gilgit, Kashmir, KP, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad & Lahore & Pardesi Qalandars.

 

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<div style="width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.250%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/s/av348/ympohq" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="100%" allowfullscreen style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div>

Shoaib Akhtar at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium where he gave his first trial. He is really impressed by the talent that came out today and is urging everyone to avail this opportunity.

Shoaib Akhtar quotes from video:

"If any of you wish to become a Shoaib Akhtar then, come by for trials"

"Extra-ordinary people live in 'Pindi who have fire, aggression and enthusiasm; although this is true for the whole country, it is especially true for 'Pindi"

"You have to bowl fast, get selected for LQ Australia squad, get selected for PSL and then represent Pakistan"

 

[MenInG]

Lahore Qalandars arrive at Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad

Faisalabad : The coaches of Lahore Qalandars held trials in Faisalabad at Iqbal Stadium on the 3rd day of Eid where thousands of passionate cricket fans were given an open opportunity to showcase their talent and make a career in cricket via the platform of Lahore Qalandars. The aspiring cricketers were given a chance to showcase their technique in four different formats as the coaching panel headed by 92 World Cup hero Aqib Javed evaluated their skill and performance. The two days series of trails at Faisalabad by Lahore Qalandars seek to find street talent that has the potential to grow into professional players. After a day of strong performances by the young street cricketers, the coaching panel shortlisted top players who will now have to pass a final stage on the last day of trials in Faisalabad before becoming a part of Faisalabad Qalandars. The Player Development Program of Lahore Qalandars is a step in PSL’s franchise to support the growth and progress of cricket in the country.

Today in Faisalabad, Lahore Qalandars were joined by Chacha Pakistan in their celebration of the spirit of the game. The franchise’s CEO Atif Rana speaking on the occasion said that Lahore Qalandars are the hope bearers for any abled Pakistani to become a star using the platform of Qalandars. ‘The love, support and the laurels which the player development program has received in its short journey over last two seasons is heartwarming, The hope we see in the thousands that arrive for the try outs in every city is what keeps Qalandars going and fuels the franchise to expand its reach. With each year the program has gotten bigger and bigger and we welcome every Pakistani to be a part of our mission to create a vibrant cricket culture in the country,’ said CEO Lahore Qalandars.

 

[Abdullah719]

Lahore Qalandars conclude its talent hunt at Faisalabad

Faisalabad : Pakistan Super League’s franchise Lahore Qalandars concluded its talent hunt in Faisalabad today at Iqbal Stadium where the franchise picked 16 talented cricketers for Faisalabad Qalandars.

The shortlisted players are: Mahindar Pal, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Ahmed Daniyal, Irfan Liaqat, Umer Gujjar, Sunny Azam, Ghulam Ribanni, Sikandar Khan, Mohammad Faizan, Bilal Shah, Raees Ahmad, Shafqat ullah, Saad ullah Zafar, Jahandad Khan, Azmul Haq and Mohammad Arshad.

The franchise also discovered a ten year old talented gem Ali Hussnain Badshah who has been taken under the franchise’s Player Development Program for nurturing and development. ‘This young man blew our selectors away with his excellent batting technique. Lahore Qalandars are taking him under the wings of our Player Development Program where under the supervision of our coaching staff he will be trained and polished. I see Pakistan’s next Miandad in him,’ said Director Operations Lahore Qalandars Aqib Javed.

The franchise’s player development program aims to provide thousands of aspiring players an open opportunity to showcase their talent and make a career in cricket via the platform of Lashore Qalandars and PSL.

The franchise’s CEO Atif Rana speaking on the occasion said that Lahore Qalandars is working to create a vibrant sports culture in the country and he hopes to see Lahore Qalandars Player Development Program become the biggest cricket nursery in Pakistan.

 

[Abdullah719]

 

[mak36]

[MENTION=133760]Abdullah719[/MENTION] do you have the dates for the tournament?

(The ones in the OP aren't accurate.)

 

[Abdullah719]

[MENTION=133760]Abdullah719[/MENTION] do you have the dates for the tournament?

(The ones in the OP aren't accurate.)

Yeah they're just at the Gujranwala stage... Looks like it's a case of 'see how it goes'. No idea about dates yet.

 

[mak36]

Yeah they're just at the Gujranwala stage... Looks like it's a case of 'see how it goes'. No idea about dates yet.

Understood. Also Fawad Rana('s moustache) needs a smiley!

 

[Abdullah719]

 

[ataullah]

Zahid and Zubair both clocked 86 mph plus. They have both impressed Shoaib Akhtar who thinks with a little effort they can be 90mph plus. They will be part of Gujranwala team

 

[Kroll]

Lahore Qalandars pick 16 aspiring players from Gujranwala for its Player Development Program

GUJRANWALA: Taking another step towards fulfilling its mission to rejuvenate street cricket in Pakistan and provide an open merit platform to the talented youngsters to showcase their skills and enter professional cricketing arena, the PSL Franchise Lahore Qalandars today picked 16 skilled youngsters to form part of its player development program from Gujranwala.

These Gujranwala Qalandars include: Muhammad Faiq, Shafqat Ali, Sheraz Hamza, Ashr Mehmood, Usaid Ameen, Waqas Ali, Usman Nazir, Rana Shazaib, Nadeem Khalil, Mohammad Zahid, Zubair Khan, Inam Javed, Frahan Mazhi , Haider Raza, Sultan Ahmad and Saqib.

The player development program by the PSL franchise has generate a new fever among cricket enthusiasts where players as young as 9 are coming for the trials and earning a spot in Qalandars Player Development Squad. The franchises stay in Gujranwala witnessed the selection of a young nine-year-old Taha Asif who aspires to be the next Sachin Tendulkar where the franchise has taken this young Qalandar under its wing for development as an upcoming cricketer in next couple of years.

Thousands of talented street cricketers tried their luck in all the aspects of game at the two-day trials in Gujranwala and according to Qalandars Chief Advisor and Chief Selector of Pakistan National Team Inzamam-ul-Haq the quality of game at Gujranwala was at par where selecting a handful of boys among the crowd of talented thousands presented a challenging task.

“The game of the boys here at Gujranwala is interesting, these young kids have a lot of facilities and we got to witness a show of that talent during the last two days. During the upcoming tournament, I expect the team of Gujranwala Qalandars to deliver some strong performances,” said Inzamam-ul-Haq, who was joined by Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar on the second day of the trials at Gujranwala Cricket Stadium along with the coaching staff of Lahore Qalandars headed by their Director Operations Aqib Javed. ‘The presence of Shoaib Akhtar on the field among us was enthralling. The fact that he was noticing me ball, pushed me to deliver an even faster delivery,’ said one of the aspiring Qalandar.

‘Development of cricket and providing recognition to the talent that is found in the streets of Pakistan is our agenda. We will continue to work for the development of players and domestic cricket in Pakistan. People are watching the work Lahore Qalandars is doing and it is aspiring a new hope among the young cricketers for their future’, remarked CEO Lahore Qalandars Atif Rana. The team of Lahore Qalandars will now move to Lahore in the final leg of its talent hunt on 28th and 29th August at Gadaffi Stadium.

 

[mak36]

Zahid and Zubair both clocked 86 mph plus. They have both impressed Shoaib Akhtar who thinks with a little effort they can be 90mph plus. They will be part of Gujranwala team

Haris Rauf was clocked at 87.2 mph.

Mamoon Riaz (featured last year and selected again this year for Rawalpindi's squad) was clocked at 82+mph. He is a tall bowler and impressed me last year. Shoaib was working with him and singled him out to Inzi.

 

[MenInG]

Day 1 of Lahore trials has begun. Lahoris have come out in huge numbers to showcase their talent.

 

[ataullah]

Haris Rauf was clocked at 87.2 mph.

Mamoon Riaz (featured last year and selected again this year for Rawalpindi's squad) was clocked at 82+mph. He is a tall bowler and impressed me last year. Shoaib was working with him and singled him out to Inzi.

My concern is what have these guys been doing all year round until next trials? Are qalandars training them all year or do they have a plan in place for them to follow? Otherwise it's a waste of talent and time

 

[MenInG]

Qalandars Player Development Program reaches franchise's hometown

LAHORE: The talent hunt under its Player Development Program by Pakistan Super League's one of the most avidly followed franchise Lahore Qalandars reached the franchise’s hometown on Tuesday where a wave of more than ten thousand aspiring cricketers welcomed the franchise and its star-studded coaching panel that includes likes of Pakistan’s Chief Selector Inzamam ul Haq and Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar. Throughout the day, these maestros interacted with the aspiring Qalandars evaluating their techniques and sharing tips with the young players at the open trials organized by the franchise at Gaddaffi Stadium.

The profoundly acclaimed Player Development Program being run by the franchise is fast galloping towards its aim of developing a dynamic pulsating sports culture across the nation. The message of its open platform to develop a promising career in cricket is quickly spreading across Pakistan and as a result of the hope the franchise has ignited in the hearts of cricket lovers, the trials at Gadaffi today witnessed and inspiring Qalandar who traveled all the way from Jammu Kashmir to try his luck at Qalandars player development program trails. On one hand, the young cricketers are excited for a chance to interact and learn from the legends of Pakistani cricket, and on the other the franchise is taking on a role of a cricket nursery that provides merit based platform to each and every Pakistani.
Following the trend of nascent cricketers coming to attend the trials at Faisalabad and Gujranwala , a 7-year-old aspiring Qalandar, Zaryan Ali Khan managed to impress Rawalpindi Express with his all-around performance at the nets. Speaking at the occasion the legendary veteran bowler praised the spirits of young Zaryan encouraging him to pursue his passion for cricket.

The franchise’s player development program has made a home into the hearts of a million of Pakistanis. The massive turnout at the franchise’s home ground is reflective of the hope Lahore Qalandars have managed to instigate for a promising future of the game in the country. The program and efforts of Lahore Qalandars is earning laurels not just nationally but is also catching the international eye as the franchise gears up to conduct trials for its Pardesi Qalandars on Wednesday at Gadaffi, Lahore. For this purpose the franchise has arranged for the participation of over 50 overseas Pakistanis from across the world including UK, USA, Canada and Saudi Arabia under the umbrella of its player development program.

With the final leg of its talent hunt ending at Lahore, the tournament of these eight teams picked across AJK, Gilgit Baltistan, KPK, Punjab and overseas shall commence from Muzaffarabad cricket stadium, Kashmir from 4th of September while the second leg of the tournament shall set its camps at Gaddaffi from 9th September as these young guns will battle out for a final spot in team of 16 that will travel to Australia as a part of their professional development in cricketing arena.

Lahore: Lahore Qalandars, a Pakistan Super League franchise has been investing heavily in the development of domestic cricket among young Pakistanis, for the long term good of the game and increase Pakistani cricket’s international appeal. The profoundly acclaimed Player Development Program being run by the franchise is fast on its way to develop a dynamic pulsating sports culture across the nation as the last star studded trials of the third season of its player development program concluded at Lahore today with the selection of two teams: Lahori Qalandars and Pardesi Qalandars.

The player development program is a small step in the franchise’s vision of national integration through sports. The Franchise has set out with a goal of revival of domestic and international cricket in Pakistan and its player development program travelled through Punjab, AJK, Gilgit Baltistan and KPK in an effort to create fair sports system purely based upon merit and to provide equal opportunities of growth and development of cricketing skills in the far-flung areas of Pakistan.

The massive turnout at the franchise’s home ground Lahore over the trials held in last two days was reflective of the hope Lahore Qalandars have managed to instigate for a promising future of the game in the country. In the current season of player development program the outreach reach by Qalandars expanded to include overseas Pakistanis as well as the franchise conducted trials of Overseas Pakistanis as its Pardesi Qalandars on Wednesday at Gadaffi. For this purpose the franchise arranged for the participation of over 50 overseas Pakistanis from across the world including UK, USA, Canada and Middle East where the Shortlisted team of Pardesi Qalandars include:

Limar Asad, Fahad Babar, Daniyal Chaudhary, Hafiz Farzan Alam, Anjum Naqvi, Aneeq Hasan, Azeem Dar, Inyayt Saeed, Muhammad Salman, Marwan Muhammad, Hassam Mushtaq, Gohar Shah, Hunaid Nadir, Imran Javed, Muhammad Bilal, Faisal Hussain and Meer Murtaza.

The shortlisted players for Lahori Qalandars include:

Hamza Nazir, Shezad Ali, Waqas Ali, Bilal Arshad, Tariq Nawaz, Salman Ali, Farzan Raja, Ali Majid, Sadat Munir, Ahsan Mirza, Bilal Ahmad, Mubashar Hussain, Mirwas Khan, Dilber Hussain, Muhammad Shahzeb and Amad Butt.

Lahore Qalandars CEO Atif Rana has expressed his gratitude to all the participants for making the first phase of the trials great success and has hopes for an even more successful second phase of tournament.

“Our priority was providing a platform to talented individuals completely on merit. We set out to provide an open nursery for any cricket enthusiast. Today we are excited to welcome a young talentedeight year old Samiya as part of the Qalandars family where we will provide for everything she needs to develop her career in cricket. Now, we are heading to Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu & Kashmir for the second phase of the tournament,” said Atif Rana in a statement.

The tournament will commence from September 4th, with eight teams picked across AJK, Gilgit Baltistan, KPK, Punjab and overseas gathering at Muzaffarabad cricket stadium, while the second leg of the tournament shall take place at Gaddaffi from 9th September as these youngsters will battle out for a final spot in team of 16 that will travel to Australia as a part of their professional development in cricketing arena

The matches in Muzaffarabad will also provide fans an opportunity to win surprise gifts on sidelines of matches.

 

[MenInG]

Opening Ceremony of Player Development Program in Muzaffarabad. PM AJK, Raja Farooq Haider praised LQ for their efforts for the revival of cricket in Kashmir.

PM Azad Kashmir doing commentary with Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Yousuf

 

[ataullah]

Just watched Salman Irshad and his speed and line looked better than before

 

[MenInG]

Lahore Qalandars Player Development Program provides a promising platform to youngsters and is much awaited all year by cricket enthusiasts. After conducting trials all over Pakistan, the PDP tournament kick-started from Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium. On the first day of the tournament Gilgit Qalandars faced Kashmir Qalandars where Kashmir emerged victorious. The man of the match award was won by M. Zubair who scored 29 off 24 and took 1 wicket leading the team to victory.

The second match was played between Pardesi Qalandars and KP Qalandars in which KP gave a tough time to Pardesis and won the match. The man of the match award was won by Sajjad Hussain who scored a brilliant 83 off 62 balls.

PM AJK Raja Farooq Haider was also present at the opening ceremony and expressed his delight on the turnout of peopl. He said, "I appreciate the efforts Qalandars are putting in for the revival of cricket in Pakistan. Such events are a breath of fresh air for Kashmiris and a chance for them to showcase their talent. "

Cricket legends including Shoaib Akhtar, M. Yousuf and Aqib Javed were also present and were delighted to see the turnout.

The next match will be played between Pardesi Qalandars and Gilgit Qalandars tomorrow.

 

[MenInG]

Lahore Qalandars launched Player Development Program to provide a never-before given platform to the youth of Pakistan. Open trials were conducted in 11 cities this year to extract talent from every street and every corner of the area with absolutely no restriction or bar.
The tournament phase of Player Development Program started from Azad Jammu & Kashmir on 4th September.

Today was the second day of PDP tournament in which the first match was played against Pardesi Qalandars and Gilgit Qalandars. The match was no les than a thriller with both teams putting up a great fight till the very end. The match was won by Gilgit Qalandars which ended the tournament for Pardesi Qalandars. The man of the match for Gilgit Qalandars was M. Sudais who scored 36 runs off 21 balls and took 1 wicket in 4 overs, giving away 21 runs.

The second match was played between Kashmir Qalandars and KP Qalandars. Kashmir put forward their best game by taking early wicket and making the run chase difficult for KP Qalandars. Kashmir won the match by 44 runs. The man of the match for Kashmir Qalandars was Inzamam-ul-Haq who took 4 wickets and gave away 13 runs.

Chairman LQ Fawad Rana was also present at the match venue. He said,” I am very grateful to the people of Kashmir for coming out in support of Player Development Program. Kashmiris are extremely passionate and talented and I hope that more cricket stars are discovered from here in the future.”

The first match tomorrow will be played between KP Qalandars and Gilgit Qalandars and the second match will be between Kashmir Qalandars and Pardesi Qalandars.

 

[MenInG]

Lahore Qalandars Player Development Program which provides a promising platform to the youth of Pakistan and develops their skills completed the first phase of the tournament in Muzaffarabad, AJK where Kashmiris came out in huge numbers to support the program and talented youngsters.

The tournament phase of Player Development Program started from Azad Jammu & Kashmir on 4th September. Today was the third day of PDP tournament in which the first match was played against KP Qalandars and Gilgit Qalandars. The exciting game ended with KP Qalandars winning. The man of the match for KP Qalandars was Sajjad Hashmi who played a brilliant knock of 71 runs off 53 balls.

The second match was played between Kashmir Qalandars and Pardesi Qalandars. Kashmir put forward their best game and restricted Pardesis to 132 runs. The man of the match for Kashmir Qalandars was Salman Irshad who took 4 wickets and gave away 25 runs.
On account of Defence Day, Lahore Qalandars management also gave a tribute to the martyrs who lost their lives for the nation.

Chairman LQ Fawad Rana was also present at the match venue. He said, “It is always great coming to Kashmir. The passion and love for cricket here is unmatched. We found incredible players from Kashmir this season as you can see from their performance. We are hopeful to find future cricket stars from here.”

Pool A matches of the Player Development Program tournament have ended. Pool B matches will start from 9th September in Gaddafi Stadium Lahore. The teams playing in Pool B are Rawalpindi Qalandars, Faisalabad Qalandars, Gujranwala Qalandars and Lahori Qalandars.

 

[MenInG]

Faisalabad Qalandars beat Lahori Qalandars in an intense game of Lahore Qalandars player development program.

A century by Tariq Nawaz gave Lahori Qalandars an impressive total but Faisalabads incredible innings earned them their first victory.
Tariq Nawaz reached his century with the help of 12 4's and 4 6's.
However, M. Faizan's brilliant knock of 83 runs in 48 balls guided Faisalabad to victory. He achieved this total with the help of 10 4's and 4 6's.
Other notable performances were those of Sikandar Khan from Faisalabad who scored 44 in 30 balls and helped his team reach victory.

The next match will be played tomorrow between Faisalabad Qalandars and Rawalpindi Qalandars which can be followed live on social media forums of Lahore Qalandars.

 

[ataullah]

Theres a young batsman called Faizan who was match winner yesterday and playing awesome again today. He is treating haris Rauf and mamoon Riaz like club bowlers. Anyone watching him? His offside game and timing is awesome.

 

[mak36]

Theres a young batsman called Faizan who was match winner yesterday and playing awesome again today. He is treating haris Rauf and mamoon Riaz like club bowlers. Anyone watching him? His offside game and timing is awesome.

Aashir Malik batted pretty well against them them yesterday- was really looking to take the attack to them. With coaching he could be decent.

 

[mak36]

Theres a young batsman called Faizan who was match winner yesterday and playing awesome again today. He is treating haris Rauf and mamoon Riaz like club bowlers. Anyone watching him? His offside game and timing is awesome.

This guy is a very clean striker of the ball.

Excellent bat swing, and a very natural timer.

 

[mak36]

Theres a young batsman called Faizan who was match winner yesterday and playing awesome again today. He is treating haris Rauf and mamoon Riaz like club bowlers. Anyone watching him? His offside game and timing is awesome.

Rauf bowled pretty well to him I thought, but yes he took Mamoon to the cleaners.

That said, Faizan struggled a little bit against the spinners/ today.

Btw, Asad Rafiq (left arm spinner) is decent- spins the ball and has a dangerous arm ball too.

 

[ataullah]

Rauf bowled pretty well to him I thought, but yes he took Mamoon to the cleaners.

That said, Faizan struggled a little bit against the spinners/ today.

Btw, Asad Rafiq (left arm spinner) is decent- spins the ball and has a dangerous arm ball too.

Who's your top batsman and top bowler of tournament so far? Zahid and Zubair didn't impress me