by Zafar Hussain

BEIJING, May 12 (China Economic Net) - Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China are set to strengthen regional sports cooperation as cricket players from the three countries prepare for a series of friendly and development matches in Hangzhou from May 14, aimed at promoting cricket in China and enhancing people-to-people exchanges.

An Afghan cricket delegation has already arrived in Hangzhou as part of a technical cooperation and sports exchange initiative with Chinese authorities, according to Afghan media reports. The delegation includes national coach Nawroz Mangal and players Qais Ahmad, Zahir Khan, Faisal Shinozada, and Wahidullah Zadran.

Meanwhile, six top Pakistani national players are expected to arrive in Hangzhou in the coming days to participate in the cricket promotion activities alongside Chinese and Afghan players. Organizers said the initiative reflects the growing sports partnership between China and Pakistan, with cricket emerging as a new bridge for cultural and youth exchanges.

The event comes at a time when the Prime Minister of Pakistan is also expected to visit Hangzhou on May 23 to attend several activities related to cooperation in trade, connectivity, education, and cultural exchanges, further highlighting the strengthening ties between Beijing and Islamabad.

Although football and basketball remain China’s most popular sports, cricket has gradually expanded in the country over the past two decades. China fielded both men’s and women’s teams during the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, marking cricket’s debut at the continental event and an important milestone for the sport’s development in China.

Pakistan has played a key role in supporting cricket development in China. Over the years, Pakistani coaches, trainers, and cricket experts have worked closely with Chinese teams, particularly in women’s cricket and grassroots training programs. Chinese cricket authorities have frequently sought assistance from Pakistan due to its strong cricket infrastructure, international experience, and longstanding friendship with China.

“Pakistan is naturally positioned to support cricket’s growth in China,” said Muhammad Azhar. “Chinese players can benefit greatly from Pakistan’s coaching systems and cricket culture.”

The Hangzhou matches will include exhibition games, coaching clinics, youth training sessions, and technical workshops designed to introduce cricket to wider Chinese audiences.

Observers say the initiative demonstrates how sports diplomacy can support broader regional cooperation between China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan while helping build a stronger cricket culture in China.