Pakistan, Saudi Arabia to join hands for cricket development

LAHORE: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have announced a groundbreaking agreement to establish an exchange programme for players, umpires, and coaches.

The development was confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following a meeting between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Saudi Deputy Minister of Sports Badr bin Abdul Rehman Al-Qadi in Riyadh.

During the meeting, Naqvi extended invitations to the Saudi deputy minister to attend the ICC Champions Trophy and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2025. The PCB chairman, who is also Pakistan’s interior minister, assured Saudi Arabia of full cooperation in promoting cricket, including the construction of modern stadiums in the Kingdom.

Naqvi emphasised Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the growth of cricket in Saudi Arabia, including initiatives to promote women’s cricket. He stated, “Pakistan stands ready to provide complete support for the growth of cricket in Saudi Arabia, including the promotion of women’s cricket. With abundant talent in Pakistan and initiatives like the Pakistan Super League, we are eager to share our expertise to help develop cricket in the Kingdom.”