Lahore: Aqib Javed, Director of High-Performance for the Pakistan Cricket Board, shared his strategic vision for the country’s cricket development in a recent episode of the PCB Podcast. Hosted by former Test fast bowler Wahab Riaz, the 63rd episode delved into the future of Pakistan’s cricket academies, focusing on both men’s and women’s cricket, as well as age-group categories.
Javed emphasized the need for a clear definition of the National Cricket Academy’s role, aiming to address gaps in the national team across all formats. He highlighted the importance of having backup players, stating, “We have compiled a list of players, identifying a need to have three backup players on the back of one player.”
The allocation of resources for different age groups and women cricketers is a key part of Javed’s plan. The Karachi High Performance Centre will now serve women cricketers, while Multan will focus on U19 players, Faisalabad on U17, and Sialkot on U15.
Javed announced the establishment of a biomechanics laboratory in Lahore to assess bowling actions and prevent injuries. “We have also acquired new coaching tools to help batters, bowlers, and fielders enhance their skills,” he explained, adding that Baseball technology will be integrated to improve spin bowling.
The Director outlined short and long-term goals, including a target for visible improvements in the next six months, in coordination with head coach Mike Hesson. Long-term plans center on nurturing the youth categories of U15, U17, and U19.
In terms of coach education, Javed dispelled the notion of a lack of qualified coaches in Pakistan. He revealed plans to introduce ‘game education’ to expand the pool of qualified professionals, ensuring they specialize in specific areas such as batting, bowling, or fielding.
Reflecting on his administrative goals, Javed expressed a desire to make significant progress within a year. “I want people to say, what great facilities this academy has,” he concluded.