Thousands of young cricketers turned out for the Prime Minister Youth Program (PMYP) trials in Sialkot and Jhelum, where Lahore Qalandars-led coaching and evaluations offered promising players a pathway to professional opportunities. The two-day events attracted large numbers of boys and girls, showcased local talent, and reinforced the program’s goal of developing the next generation of Pakistani cricketers.
Organized as part of the PMYP initiative, the trials aimed to identify and nurture talented youth by providing expert coaching, professional assessment, and exposure to a structured selection process. Both venues saw energetic participation from aspiring players determined to make an impression and advance their sporting careers.
The Jhelum trials drew notable attention when Federal Minister Bilal Kiyani hosted the event, and US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker attended the opening day, lending international recognition to the initiative. Their presence highlighted the broader social and developmental importance of investing in youth through sport and helped boost morale among participants.
Atif Rana, CEO of Lahore Qalandars, thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, PMYP Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, and the Higher Education Commission for their support in making the trials successful. He praised the turnout from Sialkot and Jhelum and emphasized the opportunity the program creates for talented youth, saying the response was “beyond expectations” and that the platform shows how dreams can become realities when talent receives the right opportunity.
Many young participants expressed gratitude to the PMYP team and Lahore Qalandars, describing the trials as a dream come true. Contestants said the experience offered valuable exposure, professional guidance, and a chance to learn from experienced coaches—benefits that extend beyond cricketing skills to increased confidence and discipline.
Lahore Qalandars’ involvement provided structured coaching and rigorous evaluations designed to unearth hidden talent. Organizers said the trials not only identify potential future stars but also promote long-term youth development by instilling teamwork, resilience, and a commitment to excellence.
The strong turnout in Sialkot and Jhelum reaffirmed Punjab’s deep cricketing culture and strengthened the PMYP’s mission to discover and support promising players across the country. Organizers plan to build on this momentum to continue scouting talent and expanding opportunities for young athletes.
