The Muhammad Yousuf National Cricket Academy visit highlighted recent improvements in
cricket facilities and development programmes in Lahore. Former Pakistan cricket captain
Muhammad Yousuf visited the National Cricket Academy at the invitation of the Pakistan Cricket
Board (PCB). During his visit, he reviewed ongoing development projects and appreciated the
modern facilities being developed to support players and improve cricket training across
Pakistan.

Yousuf said he was happy to see positive changes at the academy after one and a half years.
He praised the improvements in infrastructure and appreciated PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for
supporting cricket development. Yousuf also shared his experience of working with Naqvi and
said he had received support for providing better facilities to players. He described the ongoing
development work as an important step towards improving Pakistan cricket.

The former captain praised Aaqib Javed and his team’s plans for grassroots cricket
development. He said the Under-15, Under-17, Under-19 and Pakistan Shaheens programmes
could help prepare talented youngsters for the national team. He also appreciated the plan to
provide 240 days of training to 30 Under-15 players at the Sialkot Academy. According to
Yousuf, early training can help young cricketers improve their technical skills and mental
strength.

Yousuf welcomed the construction of modern dressing rooms and other facilities at the LCCA
Ground. He also highlighted the importance of upgrading the biomechanics laboratory, which
can help players improve their performance. Modern bowling machines and video analysis tools
can identify technical weaknesses and support better training methods. These facilities can help
coaches understand players’ performance and develop suitable training plans.

He also praised the Under-19 team’s tour of England and suggested arranging more
international tours for young Pakistani players. He recommended matches in England, Australia,
New Zealand and South Africa to help youngsters gain experience in different playing
conditions. He also welcomed the invitation to Sri Lanka’s Under-17 team to visit Pakistan.

Yousuf recommended hiring a foreign batting coach to improve young batters’ techniques, shot
selection and ability to handle pressure. He stressed that first-class cricket should include
pitches offering bounce, swing and spin. He believes continued investment in grassroots cricket
and modern facilities can help Pakistan develop talented players and strengthen its future
international performance.

Source: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) / Original news report

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