Cricket South Africa (CSA) is pleased to announce cricket-led tourism initiative which is aimed at fostering talent and promotion of people relations between South Africa and Pakistan.

In pursuit of knowledge and skills-sharing, the South Africa High Commission in Islamabad, along with the office of Majjid Bashir Ahmed, Honourary Consular of South Africa in Karachi invited an Under 19 Cricket Team from different schools around Karachi through the Nelson Mandela Talent Hunt to visit CSA’s University of Fort Hare Academy.

Conceived by Ahmed and the South African High Commissioner to Pakistan, the Nelson Mandela Talent Hunt Program is designed to identify and nurture the hidden potential within underprivileged youth in Karachi.

This visionary program has now progressed into a new phase, with the announcement of 16 exceptionally talented young players who have successfully graduated post two rigorous phases of trials.

Champions Trophy 2017-winning captain, Sarfaraz Ahmed and accomplished batter Fawad Alam, are renowned cricket figures who have joined the program as mentors, adding a remarkable flavour to this endeavour.

Ahmed, who was in May appointed ambassador of the program, brings invaluable insights and expertise to guide and inspire the young talents on their path to greatness.

Majjid Bashir Ahmed, the Honourary Consul of South Africa in Karachi, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has an equal opportunity to shine. This talent hunt program, is a step in that direction, and I am honoured to be a part of it."

The South African High Commission in Pakistan commended this initiative, with His Excellency Mthuthuzeli Madikiza, the High Commissioner, stating, "We recognise the transformative power of sports, and we are proud to support an initiative that empowers youth and promotes talent. The Nelson Mandela Talent Hunt Program is testament to the strong bond between South Africa and Pakistan."

CSA Director of Cricket, Enoch Nkwe, said; "We are thrilled to witness the growth and expansion of the Nelson Mandela Talent Hunt Program, which is aimed at fostering a meaningful connection between South Africa and Pakistan through the shared love of cricket.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to nurturing young talent and enhancing people-to-people relations. The dedication and passion of everyone involved, including the mentors, is instrumental in shaping the future of these talented young players.

“We believe this program will not only create exceptional cricketers but also strengthen the bond between our nations. We are excited to see the impact these young players will make, both on and off the field," concluded Nkwe.