The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named wicketkeeper-batter Sarfaraz Ahmed as one of the mentors in their newly-announced multi-format domestic tournaments named the 'Champions events'.

Earlier this month, the PCB announced the setting up of the 'Champions events', three new competitions at the domestic level to "bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket" in Pakistan. The 'Champions Events' will be played in the first-class, 50-overs and T20 formats.

Today (August 26), the apex cricket body in Pakistan has announced a list of mentors for five teams in the competitions, the most notable and perhaps the most surprising of which is the inclusion of Sarfaraz Ahmed.

The wicketkeeper-batter, who is currently a part of Pakistan’s squad for their Test series against Bangladesh, has been announced in the role. Sarfaraz led the team to their famous 2017 Champions Trophy victory and has been in and out of the Pakistan Test team lately, with Mohammad Rizwan being preferred to don the gloves for the series opener.

Safaraz to join a galaxy of former stars

Sarfaraz will join former international stars Misbah-ul-Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq, Waqar Younis and Shoaib Malik in the list of coveted names as mentors to help domestic players level up their game.

"I am pleased to welcome five exceptional champions as mentors for the Champions Cup teams. These individuals bring a wealth of cricketing experience, knowledge and expertise, which, combined with their passion for the game we all love, will help the Pakistan Cricket Board identify, develop and nurture the next generation of cricketers across all formats. This initiative will not only benefit the Pakistan men's cricket team but also help bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket," PCB chair Mohsin Naqvi said in an official statement.

Naqvi added: "These five mentors will play a pivotal role in the development and progression of our emerging cricketers. They will guide strategic planning and team-building processes, while also providing support in leadership and personal development."

It’s worth noting that Younis’ appointment comes after several reports claiming his resignation as Naqvi’s advisor flooded the news.

The Champions One-Day Cup is the first assignment for the mentors, with the competition scheduled between September 12 and 29.

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