PCB commits to strengthening cricket development in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently met with Prince Saud bin Mishal Al-Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation, to discuss the growth and development of cricket in Saudi Arabia. The meeting, held in Riyadh, focused on promoting the sport and enhancing player development in the kingdom.

During the discussions, Mohsin Naqvi extended an invitation to the Saudi Cricket Federation Chairman to visit Pakistan and witness the ICC Champions Trophy 2024 matches. He also offered full cooperation in the promotion of cricket and the construction of cricket stadiums in Saudi Arabia.

Naqvi further proposed that Pakistani coaches train Saudi Arabian players and suggested the establishment of a player exchange program to enhance cricket development in the region. He emphasised that the PCB would provide extensive support to Saudi Arabia in developing cricket and building infrastructure, including stadiums.

“Saudi Arabia is like a second home to every Pakistani, and we would be delighted to collaborate in the promotion of cricket in this country,” Naqvi said.

Prince Saud bin Mishal Al-Saud, for his part, expressed a keen interest in collaborating with the PCB. He shared that the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation is actively working on player development, highlighting that the country currently has around 18,000 cricket players. He also noted the success of Saudi Arabia’s national team, which recently won the Asian Cricket Council Challenge Cup.

In addition to his meeting with Prince Saud, Mohsin Naqvi also met with Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Sports Minister Badr bin Abdul Rahman Al-Qadi. They discussed various aspects of cricket promotion, player development, and stadium construction in the kingdom. Naqvi invited the Deputy Sports Minister to visit Pakistan to attend the upcoming Champions Trophy matches.