In a key development, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has given the go-ahead for the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Pakistan’s premier domestic red-ball tournament, which will kick off on October 26. The tournament, a cornerstone of Pakistan’s cricketing calendar, will feature 18 teams representing 16 regions across the country.
The competing teams include Abbottabad Region, AJK Region, Bahawalpur Region, Dera Murad Jamali Region, Faisalabad Region, FATA Region, Hyderabad Region, Islamabad Region, Karachi Region Blues, Karachi Region Whites, Lahore Region Blues, Lahore Region Whites, Larkana Region, Multan Region, Peshawar Region, Quetta Region, Rawalpindi Region, and Sialkot Region.
Karachi Region Whites, captained by Sarfaraz Ahmed, will aim to defend their title after a commanding 456-run victory over Faisalabad Region in the previous edition of the tournament.
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Director of Domestic Cricket Operations Highlights the Importance of the Trophy
Abdullah Khurram Niazi, Director of Domestic Cricket Operations, emphasized the significance of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy in shaping the future stars of Pakistan cricket. In a statement released by the PCB, he said:
The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy is the pinnacle of domestic cricket in Pakistan, providing a platform for young talent to showcase their skills and prepare for the rigors of international cricket. It’s not just a tournament, but an opportunity for players to compete alongside the country’s best and prove their mettle.
He added,
After the successful execution of the Champions One-Day Cup, we remain committed to strengthening Pakistan’s domestic cricket structure. The smooth and successful running of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy is central to that commitment.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s rising stars as they look to make their mark in one of the country’s most prestigious cricket competitions.