LAHORE: Former Pakistan captain Azhar Ali has been appointed as the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) head of youth development on Friday, adding to his existing role as a member of the men’s national selection committee. The appointment comes after a recruitment process, the PCB said in a press release. As head of youth development, Azhar will be responsible for designing and implementing youth cricket strategies, establishing grassroots cricket structures, collaborating with regional cricket associations and educating emerging cricketers. “I am honored and excited to take on this important role,” Azhar, who was a part of Pakistan’s -winning squad in 2017, said. “Having risen through the age-group ranks and played extensive club and domestic cricket, I understand the critical role grassroots development plays in shaping future stars. “Significant strides have already been made in this area and I look forward to working with my colleagues to further elevate our youth development programme. Our goal is to identify promising talent and equip them with the tools to excel at the highest level, he added.” Azhar, a celebrated figure in Pakistan cricket, began his journey at the Under-19 World Cup in 2002 before transitioning to the senior national team. He and 53 One-day Internationals caps over a distinguished career spanning 2010 to 2022. As captain, Azhar led the national side in nine Tests and 31 ODIs. Azhar’s appointment follows the PCB’s decision to give Aaqib Javed, another member of the selection committee, an as interim head coach of the white-ball national team.