The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched a major talent-hunting campaign by announcing nationwide open trials in 15 cities to identify and develop young cricketers.
According to PCB officials, around 350 players will be shortlisted for 16 regional academies through this large-scale scouting program. This initiative is being described as one of the most organized talent development projects in Pakistan’s cricket history.
Selection Panel Led by Former Stars
The trials will begin from February 11, 2026, and will be supervised by a panel of former international cricketers, including:
-
Aqib Javed (Director High Performance)
-
Misbah-ul-Haq (NCA Coach)
-
Abdul Razzaq (NCA Coach)
The panel will travel across different cities to evaluate players.
Training and Development Program
Up to 24 players per region will be selected and sent to regional headquarters for a four-week intensive training camp.
After completing regional camps, top performers will be invited to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for advanced training. They will also join a one-year skill development program in their respective regions.
Cash Prizes for Top Performers
To motivate players, PCB will award on-the-spot cash prizes at each venue for:
-
Best Pacer
-
Best Spinner
-
Best Batter
This step aims to encourage competitive performance during trials.
Pathway to PSL and Domestic Cricket
PCB officials say that selected players will be recommended for departmental and regional teams. Outstanding performers may also be placed on a pathway leading to PSL selection in future seasons.
The program is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s domestic cricket system and provide equal opportunities to young talent from all regions.
Complete PCB Open Trials Schedule
| Date | Venue | Region |
|---|---|---|
| 11 Feb | PCB Ground, Sukkur | Larkana |
| 12–13 Feb | Niaz Stadium, Hyderabad | Hyderabad |
| 15–16 Feb | KCCA Stadium, Karachi | Karachi |
| 25–26 Mar | Dring Stadium, Bahawalpur | Bahawalpur |
| 28–29 Mar | Multan Stadium | Multan |
| 1–2 Apr | Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad | Faisalabad |
| 4–5 Apr | LCCA Ground, Lahore | Lahore |
| 7–8 Apr | Faraz Stadium, Sialkot | Sialkot |
| 10–11 Apr | Rawalpindi Stadium | Rawalpindi |
| 13–14 Apr | Marghzar Ground, Islamabad | Islamabad |
| 16–17 Apr | Abbottabad Stadium | Abbottabad |
| 19–20 Apr | Imran Khan Stadium, Peshawar | Peshawar |
| 22–23 Apr | Hayatabad Stadium | FATA |
| 25–26 Apr | Muzaffarabad Stadium | AJK |
| 28–29 Apr | Bugti Stadium, Quetta | Quetta |
| 1 May | Hub Stadium, Lasbela | Dera Murad Jamali |
