Aqib Javed part ways with Lahore Qalandars after 8 years

In a major development, Aqib Javed part ways with Lahore Qalandars after working for eight years with the franchise. He was one of the stalwarts from the Test team who laid the foundation for the Qalandars and brought success to the franchise. Now, he has also been given the responsibility of selectors with the Pakistan national team.

Notably, Qalandars parted ways with Aqib Javed after being at the helm of the franchise as the Director of Cricket Operations and Head Coach for almost two years, since June 2016. However, during his tenure, he led the side to three finals of the PSL and won two successive PSL titles in 2020 and 2023 consecutively.

One important contribution of Javed before he parted ways with Lahore Qalandars was his participation in the Player Development Program of the franchise. Under this initiative, he helped identify and nurture young cricketing talent, thus playing a pivotal role in strengthening the pipeline of players for the team.

Speaking about his departure from Lahore Qalandars, Aqib Javed says that his experience with the franchise has been an “incredible experience” coming to an end as he leaves the franchise. He says he is proud of the vision behind the franchise, especially where youngsters were concerned. He’s looking forward to a new role within the Pakistan national team now.

“My time with Lahore Qalandars has been an incredible journey, filled with unforgettable moments and significant achievements. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working on the Qalandars’ vision, especially the Player Development Program (PDP), which has been close to my heart. Seeing young talent grow and flourish through this initiative has been deeply rewarding.

“Contributing to the franchise’s rise and success, both on and off the field, has been a remarkable experience. However, after eight wonderful years, I feel that now is the right time to embrace a new challenge with the national team. I am excited to bring my experience and passion to Pakistan cricket and look forward to serving the country in this new role.”

Javed was the focal man behind the success of the team, be it consecutive PSL wins or developing new talent through PDP, said vice-president Lahore Qalandars Sameen Rana while addressing the meeting between Aqib Javed and Lahore Qalandars.

Though Aqib Javed departs Lahore Qalandars, his legacy would stay etched into the history of the franchise. On this loss, Rana of this transition believes that it is yet again a step towards further contributing to Pakistan cricket for Javed. With all his experience with Qalandars, that which is supposed to be carried forward into the national side as well, a tangibility would emerge in Pakistan’s cricketing future while infusing his influence into the sports.

“I would like to sincerely thank Aqib Bhai for everything he has done for the franchise over the years. He can be immensely proud of the achievements we’ve accomplished together, uplifting the vision and philosophy of Lahore Qalandars. His unwavering dedication has been instrumental in shaping the identity and success of the franchise. From winning PSL titles to nurturing young talent through PDP, Aqib’s legacy will always be a proud part of Qalandars’ history.

“While we part ways with heavy hearts, we are excited for him as he embarks on a new journey with Pakistan cricket. Lahore Qalandars have always played a key role in developing talent for the national team, and with Aqib now joining the national management, it’s another example of our commitment to supporting the country’s cricket. We wish him nothing but the best for this next chapter. We are confident that the invaluable experience he gained with Lahore Qalandars will enable him to continue the legacy of the PDP at the national level and make a positive impact in his new role.”