In a new joint global venture, the professional cricket clubs Warwickshire County Cricket Club (WCCC) and Lahore Qalandars have announced a new partnership. This collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to developing a long-term strategic vision aimed at growing cricket across both Birmingham and Warwickshire in the UK, and Lahore in Pakistan.
Officially launching in the autumn, the partnership will roll out mutually beneficial ventures for 2026 and beyond. The primary focus will be on talent and performance development through player and coach exchanges, academies and scouting networks, community projects, support for grassroots cricket, and commercial opportunities.
Driving Growth Through Collaboration
Abraham Khan, Finance Director of WCCC, commented that this collaboration with Lahore Qalandars is “not only about cricket at the highest level, but is about creating opportunities that will further enhance the growth of the game.” He added, “By working together, we can pave the way for youth pathways, bolster funding and support for grassroots cricket, launch community initiatives and pool shared resources for development across all levels of the club.”
Sameen Rana, owner and COO of Lahore Qalandars, called the partnership a “landmark moment” for the club. He stated, “Our philosophy has always been to think beyond boundaries, and this is another step in that journey. Together, we aim to elevate professional performance, unlock new avenues to identify and nurture talent, and use the power of cricket to inspire and connect our communities in Lahore and Birmingham.”
Rana further explained that the collaboration is about more than just cricket; it’s about “building shared pathways for players, coaches and fans, while expanding our global reach and creating new opportunities for growth.” He believes this joint venture will establish a sustainable model that strengthens both clubs on and off the field and, most importantly, “leaves a lasting legacy for the future of the game.”
How the Partnership Began
The partnership was initiated by the British Pakistan Initiative (BPI) following an Academy Tour to Lahore in March 2025, which was organized by Raf Sabir, Finance Director for CVS. This cultural and sporting exchange evolved into a comprehensive long-term strategic alliance, now poised to reshape the cricketing landscape in both Birmingham and Lahore.
