Peshawar Zalmi to include two Chinese players in squad
Peshawar Zalmi has decided to include two Chinese cricketers in its squad to promote cricket in China, a press release by Peshawar Zalmi said on Friday.
The cricketers, Jian Li and Yufie Zhang, will be a part of the Zalmi squad for the third edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) scheduled to begin in February 2018.
"Peshawar Zalmi is not only pleased to assist in top notch coaching and mentoring of cricketers in China, but also providing them a platform to recognise their talent and motivate them to achieve international recognition," said Zalmi's owner Javed Afridi at an event at the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad.
Muhammad Akram, the director of cricketing affairs for Peshawar Zalmi, said that the team's coaching staff will travel to China for a seminar to kick off collaboration with the Chinese board and hold coaching programs subsequently to identify and groom young Chinese talent.
He also revealed that a China Zalmi team will participate in tournaments organised by the franchise under its "Global Zalmi" initiative with representation from 25 clubs from across the globe.
Former Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Zhang Chunxiang was also present in the ceremony.
Comments (16) Closed
Excellent strategical decision. Thats the way to go about it.
A good step taken by Peshawar Zalmi atleast. In the absence of Forgein Minister and fail Forgein policy of Pakistan, hope this will help to present a positive image of Pakistan
Good gesture!
This is how you spread cricket. Pakistans role must be appreciated. Unlike other board who are just after revenue.
Chinese once learnt the game will become world champion soon
Chinese people dont play cricket.
Good step to further promote cricket in China it Will not only strengthen the friendship of two countries but also provide a good team to ICC.
Awesome decision and great demonstration of Pak China friendship.
@Saurab Neither did we until Brits brought it over. There is start to everything.
China has potential. Surely Cricket will become very popular in China soon. Id like to see more Chinese players playing in PSL so they can build a good International Cricket Team. Also China needs to show Cticket on their National TVs to promote the Sport.
A multinational team, yeah this will introduce cricket in China. Some US cricketers may also be included in Karachi or Lahore based teams, although cricket is played in US, but still needs integration in international horizon.And why not some Indians players be also invited. Today cricket diplomacy is a recognized phenomenon, we must take advantage for peace and tranquility, as well as healthy environment.
Wow, thats great news for cricket fans.
@Pakistani so PCB is a charitable organisation?
Watch them come up quickly since chineese are hard working and very competitive nation, good luck
Welcome to the club.
Chinese are not going to spend whole day playing cricket.