PJL is the brainchild of PCB chairman Rameez Raja, who wants to take advantage of the commercial market’s interest in spending on cricket. The six franchises will be sold through a bidding process, and the team names will be based on major centers in the country, even if they are different from the centers already established in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
The PCB aims to pick players in the 15-19 age group through a draft system, which includes both local and foreign players. Although players in these age groups have never featured in a league of such a large scale, the PCB has forced PSL teams to pick two budding cricketers in their squad, including one in the playing XI.
Cricket in Pakistan is mostly structured at the junior level, with different levels between the under-15 and under-19 groups. Historically, young cricketers have been nurtured through longer format games to play one-day matches as well as two- or three-day matches.
In order to make the league more commercially viable and generate interest, the PCB has devised a model of bringing in sports stalwarts as mentors and coaches. In addition to their roles as team mentors, the PCB said the four household names will also act as event ambassadors, using their knowledge and influence to promote and promote the league.
Former Pakistan captain Afridi remains one of the most popular figures in the country despite retiring from international cricket in 2018. However, he has continued to play and invest in franchise cricket.
Afridi said, ‘I am a big advocate of investing in the future. “If T20 cricket is a medium to promote and develop cricket and identify young talent, then we need to come up with new ideas to create opportunities and explore hidden talent, and ensure That their skills and performance are duly noted and subsequently rewarded.
“Working as a mentor to a teenage team will be a new experience for me. I am absolutely excited and looking forward to playing my part in helping these energetic and skilled cricketers achieve the pinnacle of glory. There is no doubt that there is an abundance of talent. We have it, this tournament will be able to identify at least half a dozen cricketers, who can be developed and developed into star cricketers, who will then become millions of cricket fans and fans. Can live up to the expectations and expectations of the followers.”
Sammy, a former West Indies captain, has been one of the key figures in the PSL, and is one of the most popular names in Pakistan for his contribution to reviving international cricket in the country. He has been one of the more recognized foreign faces and was honored Nishan-e-Pakistan And Sitara-e-Pakistan In recognition of his contribution to cricket in the country.
He said, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to be involved in the inaugural Pakistan Junior League. I am totally behind the concept and I am sure it will help identify and fast-track outstanding cricketers.” will do.”
“I have been a part of the Pakistan cricket system since 2016 and have witnessed some great local talent that has blown me away. I am now looking forward to working more closely with the teenagers, taking my knowledge to them and helping them meet their goals.” Help him in his dreams of becoming an international cricketer.”
Umar Farooq is ESPNcricinfo’s Pakistan correspondent
