Red-ball cricket has always been regarded as the purest form of the game, testing a player’s skill, temperament, and character. For Pakistan, a country with a rich yet unpredictable cricketing history, the future of its Test team depends on how well it nurtures young talent through domestic competitions like the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy.
The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Pakistan’s premier First-Class tournament, continues to serve as the main platform for discovering future Test players. This year’s edition carries added importance, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made it mandatory for every regional team to include at least one under-21 player in their playing XI. Some sides have gone further by adding two or three young cricketers to strengthen their future core.
The move aims to ensure that Pakistan’s next generation gains valuable experience in competitive red-ball cricket. Players like Shahzaib Khan of Abbottabad, Mohammad Ammar of Bahawalpur, and Ubaid Shah of Lahore Whites have already started making their mark. Shahzaib, mentored by Fakhar Zaman, impressed with his resilience in the opening rounds, while Ammar’s consistency with the bat continues to stand out.
In Karachi, young talents such as Saad Baig and Haroon Arshad have shown promise, while Multan’s Mohammad Ismail and Peshawar’s Mohammad Abuzar are emerging as exciting fast-bowling prospects.
The PCB believes that providing early exposure to First-Class cricket will bridge the gap between youth and senior levels. These under-21 players not only meet the new regulation but also symbolize Pakistan’s long-term vision for Test cricket.
Despite weather delays and earlier controversies over team qualifications, the 2025 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy has begun with renewed focus on player development. As these young cricketers gain experience, they represent hope for a stronger, more consistent red-ball future for Pakistan.
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