LAHORE, 24 October, 2026 (Ghufran): The University of Central Punjab (UCP) has offered its sports facilities and nationwide educational network to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for a joint cricket talent hunt programme aimed at identifying and nurturing emerging cricketing talent across the country. Punjab Group Chairman Mian Amer proposed the collaborative initiative to improve training opportunities for young players and establish a structured pathway for university cricketers to progress into higher levels of the game. The proposal was presented at UCP’s annual sports prize distribution ceremony in Lahore, attended by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and HEC Chairman Dr Niaz Ahmad. Mian Amer welcomed the initiative launched under the leadership of the PCB and HEC, saying it would provide university cricketers with opportunities to advance on merit. Under the proposed pathway, universities maintaining their Gold Category status for two consecutive years could become eligible to participate in first-class cricket, creating a more structured route for talented students to enter Pakistan’s domestic cricket system. He appreciated Mohsin Naqvi and Dr Niaz Ahmad for promoting university cricket and creating opportunities for young players to showcase their abilities. UCP secured the gold medal in the competition, while the university’s sports leadership and administration contributed to its participation and achievement. The initiative is expected to strengthen university cricket and help identify promising players for future opportunities in the national cricket structure.