LOWER DIR: Pakistan batter Iftikhar Ahmed has praised the talent and courage of Pakistani cricketers, particularly players from Pakhtun regions, saying they can compete at the highest level when provided with proper opportunities, training and guidance.
Popularly known among cricket fans as “Chacha,” Iftikhar was addressing the opening ceremony of a Junior League tournament organised by Israr Cricket Academy in Timergara on Wednesday.
Cricket enthusiasts, Lower Dir Cricket Association officials and local elders welcomed the national player upon his arrival, presenting him with garlands and chanting slogans in his support.
Iftikhar has represented Pakistan across all three international formats and is widely known as a hard-hitting middle-order batter and part-time off-spinner.
‘There Is No Shortcut to Success’
Addressing young players, Iftikhar said cricket academies in several foreign countries charge substantial fees, while aspiring players in Pakistan can access quality training at comparatively affordable rates.
He said the success of a cricketer brings pride not only to the individual but also to their family and home region.
Iftikhar urged emerging players to remain committed to hard work, discipline and consistency, stressing that there was no shortcut to success in competitive sport.
He said senior players had a responsibility to guide, support and encourage juniors so that Pakistan could continue producing talented cricketers for the national team.
“There is no shortage of talent among Pakhtun players,” he said, adding that proper coaching, facilities and competitive opportunities could help them achieve success at national and international levels.
Six Clubs Competing in Junior League
PCB Peshawar Region President Gulzada, Lower Dir Cricket Officer Muslim Khan, PTI leaders Malik Inam Khan and Malik Zia-ul-Haq, and Bajaur Cricket Association President Izhar-ul-Haq also addressed the ceremony.
The speakers thanked Iftikhar Ahmed for visiting Lower Dir and encouraging young cricketers.
Gulzada said six leading cricket clubs from the region were participating in the Junior League, with matches being played under a league format.
He added that more than 150 young players train at Israr Cricket Academy each day and expressed hope that many of them would eventually represent Pakistan.
The academy has also publicised junior league cricket activities in Timergara during July 2026.
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