Warwickshire County Cricket Club (WCCC) has announced a landmark global partnership with Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Lahore Qalandars, forming a long-term joint venture aimed at developing cricket across Birmingham, Warwickshire, and Lahore.
The collaboration, set to officially launch in Autumn 2025, will focus on talent and performance development, player and coach exchanges, academies, scouting networks, grassroots support, and community initiatives. Commercial opportunities are also part of the agreement, designed to strengthen both clubs on and off the field.
Building on Warwickshire’s expansion
The announcement follows Warwickshire’s July 2025 acquisition of The Hundred franchise Birmingham Phoenix, alongside partners Knighthead LLP, marking a new era of growth for the county club. WCCC Finance Director Abraham Khan said the partnership demonstrates a commitment to both professional and grassroots cricket.
“Collaborating with Lahore Qalandars is not only about cricket at the highest level, but about creating opportunities that will enhance the growth of the game. Together, we can pave the way for youth pathways, bolster grassroots cricket, and launch initiatives that will have a lasting impact,” Khan said.
Lahore Qalandars: “A landmark moment”
Sameen Rana, Owner and COO of Lahore Qalandars, described the partnership as a historic step in the franchise’s global vision.
“This partnership with Warwickshire is a landmark moment. 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 talent, and inspire communities in Lahore and Birmingham,” Rana said.
He added that the collaboration is not just about cricket, but about creating shared pathways for players, coaches, and fans while expanding global reach and creating sustainable opportunities for growth.
Brokered by British Pakistan Initiative
The partnership was facilitated by the British Pakistan Initiative (BPI) following an academy tour to Lahore in March 2025, organized by Raf Sabir, Finance Director of CVS. That tour served as a cultural and sporting exchange, laying the foundation for a comprehensive long-term alliance.
Industry impact: a new model for global cricket partnerships
The WCCC–Qalandars venture represents one of the most significant cross-continental partnerships in modern cricket, positioning both clubs as leaders in collaborative development. By combining resources across two passionate cricketing regions, the deal could provide a model for other franchises and counties exploring global partnerships.
For fans in Birmingham and Lahore alike, the initiative promises more opportunities, stronger pathways, and deeper connections between two cricket-loving cultures.
