The Prime Minister Youth Program cricket trials, organized by Lahore Qalandars, drew thousands of young boys and girls to Sialkot and Jhelum, offering aspiring players a clear pathway to professional cricket and reinforcing Punjab’s strong cricketing tradition. The events combined large-scale participation, professional coaching, and high-profile support to spotlight youth development through sport.
The trials in Sialkot and Jhelum attracted a vast turnout, with young athletes lining up to showcase their skills under structured evaluation. Organizers said the response exceeded expectations, with both venues buzzing with energy as participants attempted to secure opportunities for further development and selection.
The Jhelum trials were given added prominence by the personal hosting of Federal Minister Bilal Kiyani, while the presence of US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker on the first day drew international attention to the initiative. Organizers said these visits helped boost morale among the participants and underscored the broader significance of investing in youth programs.
Lahore Qalandars CEO Atif Rana expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, PMYP Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, and the Higher Education Commission for their support in making the trials possible. He also thanked the youth of Sialkot and Jhelum for their turnout, saying the passion and energy witnessed were beyond expectations and that the platform proves dreams can come true when talent is given the right opportunity.
Participants voiced appreciation for the initiative, thanking the Prime Minister, the PMYP team, and Lahore Qalandars for providing exposure and professional guidance. Many described the trials as a dream come true, noting that the experience offered both motivation and practical direction for their cricketing ambitions.
With Lahore Qalandars delivering expert coaching and systematic evaluation, the program aims to identify emerging talent while fostering confidence, discipline, and hope among young players. Organizers say the trials are uncovering promising athletes and preparing them for potential careers in the sport.
The strong showings in Sialkot and Jhelum reaffirm the province’s deep-rooted cricketing culture and strengthen the PMYP’s mission to discover and nurture future stars for Pakistan. Organizers indicated that similar trials will continue as part of the broader effort to expand access to professional training and opportunity.
