There was a time when Pakistan used to get players from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, formerly called NWFP, but they would not go on to become star cricketers. In 1990s, the province produced players like Kabir Khan, who played four tests and 10 one-dayers, Fazle Akbar, who played five tests and two one-day games, Akhtar Sarfaraz, who played four one-day matches, and Wajahatullah Wasti, who played 6 tests and 15 one-day games.
But that trend changed after 1990s. Cricket there came of age in 2000 when Arshad Khan became regular part of the national team for quite a while and Youis Khan made his debut.
Although Arshad Khan never became a superstar, he managed to play 58 one-day games and 9 tests for Pakistan. He can be called father of cricket in NWFP.
Younis Khan became the first cricketer from the province to be a Pakistan captain. He has written his name among the greats of Pakistan. History of Pakistan cricket will never be complete without this Pathan.
Till the time Arshad played his last one-day in 2006, another Pathan had become a permanent feature of Pakistani side. This was Umar Gul who made his debut in 2003. It is certain that he will play cricket for Pakistan till the time his body gives up. He is such a talent.
Yasir Hameed is also an important cricketer from the province. He has played 25 tests and 56 one-day games.
Junaid Khan from Abbottabad is a promising new addition to Pakistan team from that region. Many more are gearing up for the national duty. It is likely that in future this province will produce largest number of cricketers after Punjab, leaving behind Karachi.
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