Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Lahore Qalandars have announced a major long-term partnership aimed at strengthening cricket ties between the UK and Pakistan, with a wide-ranging initiative to develop the sport across Birmingham, Warwickshire, and Lahore. The collaboration promises to promote cricket at both professional and grassroots levels through joint programs and shared resources.
The alliance, officially launching this autumn, establishes a framework for extensive cooperation between the two clubs. Key aspects of the venture include talent identification and performance development, player and coaching exchanges, the creation of joint academies, expanded scouting networks, and a focus on grassroots and community cricket initiatives. Both clubs are also planning to explore commercial opportunities as part of their wider vision for international growth beyond 2026.
This partnership comes at a significant time for Warwickshire County Cricket Club, following its recent acquisition of Birmingham Phoenix in collaboration with Knighthead LLP, which has fueled ambitions to broaden the club’s reach and impact on the global cricket scene.
Abraham Khan, Finance Director of Warwickshire, emphasized that the partnership is about more than just elite cricket. He said the collaboration offers an opportunity to create clear pathways for young players, expand grassroots efforts, develop community projects, and combine resources to strengthen the sport at every level. He described the alliance as a historic new chapter for both organizations.
Sameen Rana, Owner and COO of Lahore Qalandars, highlighted the broader vision behind the agreement. He noted that by teaming up with Warwickshire, both clubs aim to foster new talent, inspire communities in both Lahore and Birmingham, and establish a sustainable model for continued growth on and off the field that will create a lasting legacy for cricket.
The agreement was made possible through the efforts of the British Pakistan Initiative, following a successful Academy Tour to Lahore earlier this year. What began as a cultural and sporting exchange has now evolved into a strategic partnership designed to transform the cricketing landscape across both continents.
