Three-time Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions Lahore Qalandars have appointed former Bangladesh captain and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Aminul Islam Bulbul as an advisor to the franchise’s High-Performance Centers.
According to a press release issued by the franchise, Bulbul will help strengthen the development of Lahore Qalandars’ High-Performance Centers, focusing on player development, coaching standards and opportunities for emerging cricketers.
His appointment is part of the franchise’s efforts to expand its grassroots cricket programmes and build a stronger pathway for young players seeking professional careers.
Bulbul brings extensive experience in international cricket, administration and player development, having worked with the International Cricket Council (ICC), Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Bangladesh Cricket Board.
Aminul Islam Bulbul Brings International Cricket Experience
Bulbul served as the ICC Cricket Development Manager for Asia from 2015 to 2025. Before joining the ICC, he worked as a Cricket Development Officer at the Asian Cricket Council.
He also served as president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board from May 30, 2025, to April 7, 2026.
During his playing career, Bulbul represented Bangladesh between 1988 and 2002 and captained the national side at the 1999 ICC Cricket World Cup.
He holds a significant place in Bangladesh cricket history for scoring the country’s first Test century against India in November 2000, during Bangladesh’s inaugural Test match.
His experience in international cricket development is expected to support Lahore Qalandars’ efforts to improve coaching structures, identify emerging talent and provide young cricketers with better development opportunities.
Lahore Qalandars’ Journey in the Pakistan Super League
Lahore Qalandars joined the Pakistan Super League in 2016 as one of the tournament’s five original franchises. However, the team endured a difficult start, missing the playoffs in its first four seasons and repeatedly finishing near the bottom of the standings.
The franchise reached its first PSL final in 2020 under captain Sohail Akhtar but lost to Karachi Kings. Another disappointing campaign followed in 2021, prompting the management to appoint Shaheen Shah Afridi as captain ahead of the 2022 season.
The leadership change proved successful as Lahore Qalandars won their maiden PSL championship in 2022, defeating Multan Sultans by 42 runs in the final.
Lahore retained the trophy in 2023 after beating Multan Sultans by just one run in a closely contested final. The achievement made the Qalandars the first franchise to win consecutive PSL titles.
However, the team struggled in 2024, recording just one victory during the tournament.
The franchise returned to winning ways in 2025, defeating Quetta Gladiators by six wickets in the final to claim its third PSL championship.
Its campaign in PSL 2026 was less successful, as Lahore finished fifth in the standings and failed to secure a playoff position.
Focus Shifts to Grassroots Cricket and Young Talent
Bulbul’s appointment comes as Lahore Qalandars look to strengthen their cricket development infrastructure beyond the PSL competition.
The franchise has increasingly focused on identifying young talent and providing development opportunities through its High-Performance Centers and grassroots initiatives.
His experience across Asian cricket administration could help the Qalandars improve their coaching methods, talent identification and player development programmes.
The appointment also reflects the franchise’s intention to build a more sustainable cricket structure by investing in young players rather than concentrating solely on its senior PSL squad.
