The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy has taken an exciting turn as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a major change in the tournament’s structure. Despite both Karachi teams failing to qualify directly through the Hanif Muhammad Trophy, Karachi Blues received a lifeline to compete in Pakistan’s premier domestic competition. This development comes after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi used his special powers to increase the number of teams from 8 to 10, reshaping the dynamics of the competition.
Karachi’s Entry into Quaid-e-Azam Trophy
Initially, Karachi Blues and Karachi Whites were unable to secure a spot in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy through their performances in the Hanif Muhammad Trophy. Karachi Blues had accumulated 96 points, while Karachi Whites were unable to reach the required threshold. However, with PCB’s intervention, Karachi Blues now join Faisalabad and Multan in the main competition.
The decision reflects PCB’s efforts to make domestic cricket more competitive and inclusive. The recommendation came from the Domestic Cricket Committee, which believed expanding the competition would bring greater balance and provide more players with opportunities to showcase their skills.
Expansion of Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Teams
For the 2025 edition, the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy will now feature 10 teams instead of 8. This expansion includes the addition of Karachi Blues, Faisalabad, and Multan, who will compete alongside other top domestic sides.
According to the final standings of the Hanif Muhammad Trophy (Grade II):
- FATA finished with 108 points
- Karachi Blues with 96 points
- Faisalabad with 87 points
- Multan with 86 points
These teams now form part of the revamped Quaid-e-Azam Trophy lineup, promising more competitive cricket and stronger rivalries.
Highlights from Hanif Muhammad Trophy
The battle for qualification into the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy saw some thrilling performances in the fifth round of Grade II matches. Multan defeated Larkana convincingly by 10 wickets, while Karachi Whites secured a 6-wicket victory over Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Lahore Blues dominated Quetta with a 188-run win, bowling them out for just 92 runs in the second innings.
Qasim Akram was the star performer of the round, taking 7 wickets for 54 runs and completing a 10-wicket haul in the match. His all-round performance demonstrated the kind of talent that Pakistan’s domestic structure continues to produce. In addition, Imran Butt shone for Lahore with a composed 112 in the second innings, further cementing his reputation as a dependable batsman.
Meanwhile, the Hyderabad vs. Faisalabad clash ended in a draw, but Faisalabad’s consistent performances across the rounds ensured their qualification.
Importance of Quaid-e-Azam Trophy in Pakistan Cricket
The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy is Pakistan’s most prestigious first-class cricket tournament, serving as the backbone of the country’s domestic structure. Many of Pakistan’s cricketing legends, from Hanif Muhammad to Babar Azam, have honed their skills in this competition.
By expanding the teams, the PCB aims to provide emerging cricketers with greater opportunities to play at the highest domestic level. This move is expected to increase competitiveness and help identify players who can eventually represent Pakistan on the international stage.
Karachi’s Cricketing Revival
Karachi’s re-entry into the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy carries symbolic importance. As one of Pakistan’s cricketing hubs, Karachi has historically produced some of the finest players, including Javed Miandad, Hanif Muhammad, and Sarfaraz Ahmed. Allowing Karachi Blues another chance in the competition not only keeps the city’s cricketing tradition alive but also ensures representation from one of the country’s largest cricketing markets.
Statistical Significance
According to PCB’s recent reports, more than 300 players participated in the domestic season 2024–25, with over 70 percent of them under the age of 25. This reflects a strong pipeline of young talent eager to prove themselves in tournaments like the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. Additionally, PCB’s decision to expand the competition to 10 teams increases the total number of matches, giving players more opportunities to showcase consistency and resilience.
The 2025 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy promises to be one of the most competitive editions in recent memory. With Karachi Blues, Faisalabad, and Multan joining the mix, fans can expect tighter contests, emerging stars, and renewed rivalries.
PCB’s decision to expand the competition shows its commitment to strengthening domestic cricket, ensuring that no deserving region or player is left behind. The coming months will reveal whether these changes bring long-term benefits, but one thing is certain: Pakistan’s domestic cricket is moving toward a more inclusive and competitive future.
The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy is more than just a domestic tournament; it is the foundation of Pakistan’s cricketing future. With the expansion to 10 teams and Karachi Blues given a crucial lifeline, this year’s competition is set to deliver high-quality cricket and uncover fresh talent. Fans across the country will be eagerly watching as their regional teams battle it out for the most prestigious title in Pakistan’s domestic circuit.
