By Zainab Shafiq 
The Nelson Mandela Talent Hunt Programme concluded its journey with the final round of trials held at the Asghar Ali Shah Cricket Stadium in Karachi on Sunday. Over 180 shortlisted players showcased their skills in front of selectors, including Shadab Kabir, Tahir Khan, and Mohtashim, for further evaluation.
Initiated by Majeed Bashir Ahmed, Chairman of Bristol Engineering and Honorary Council of South Africa in Karachi, this groundbreaking talent hunt programme aimed to provide equal opportunities to underprivileged children in Karachi. The South African High Commission in Pakistan extended strong support to this initiative. After two phases of trials, 60 talented players were selected to move forward in the programme.
Sarfaraz Ahmed, the captain who led Pakistan to victory in the 2017 Champions Trophy, and renowned batter Fawad Alam joined the programme as mentors. Sarfaraz was appointed as the ambassador of the programme in May. Both mentors interacted with the young participants, shared their invaluable wisdom, and praised the budding stars and the initiative as a whole.
Expressing his appreciation for the programme, Sarfaraz Ahmed highlighted the experience of the selection panel and his commitment to providing the players with guidance and advice based on his own journey. Fawad Alam emphasized the abundance of talent in Karachi and expressed his satisfaction with the opportunity this initiative offers to local players to shine on a larger stage.
Moving forward, the 60 shortlisted players will be divided into four teams, competing in matches to determine the final 16 participants. The selected players will then have the opportunity to travel to South Africa, where they will receive further training and gain international exposure to enhance their skills. This programme aims to shape the future of these talented individuals and provide them with a platform to excel at the highest level.
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