‘We'll soon announce the names’ - Waqar Younis confirms PCB’s idea to include legends in new Championship tournaments

Former cricketer Waqar Younis has been appointed as the advisor of cricket affairs of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and will report directly to Mohsin Naqvi. He has been appointed to oversee and develop the domestic cricket circuit. PCB has unveiled new tournaments - branded as the Champions One-Day Cup, Champions T20 Cup, and Champions First-Class Cup.

The tournament will feature five teams, named Dolphins, Lions, Panthers, Stallions, and Wolves. The top domestic players from each team will be representing in the tournament and a few centrally contracted players will also be available for selection. In addition, PCB has announced that five legendary cricketers will be associated with each team during the tournament.

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Speaking about that, Waqar confirmed that he is in touch with a few of them and the apex council will soon announce the names. He added that the goal is clear and that is to work for the betterment of Pakistan Cricket, and is eager to contribute to its growth. He talked about the importance of having legendary players in the set-up as it would inspire and help budding cricketers to get better.

“We will appoint five legends to head the teams and I am already in touch with some of them. Cricket's current state is clear: improvements are necessary. While stadiums are important, our focus should be on enhancing the quality of play. Involving renowned cricketers and legends in the process is crucial. The Chairman's idea to involve these figures is excellent, and we've discussed it with some legends,” Waqar was quoted as saying by OneCricket.

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“We'll soon announce the names of those who will help advance the sport. I fully support this concept and hope it succeeds. Cricket remains our product, and we have to play good cricket to maintain our brand. All rest comes later,” he added.

Pakistan’s domestic season is expected to begin on September 1 and continue till August 2025.