The partnership will aim to utilise the voice and reputation of the PCB and Pakistani cricketers to tackle the mental health crisis in Pakistan, creating long-term change in the country.

It was announced in the run-up to Pakistan’s Twenty20 and One Day International tour of England in May, which will be followed by the country’s participation in the 2019 International Cricket Council World Cup in England and Wales.

A launch event will take place at The Savoy in London on April 25 at the start of the British Asian Trust’s Ramadan appeal, which aids the organisation’s mental health work in Pakistan.

According to the World Health Organisation statistics, more than 500 million people in Pakistan will be affected by mental health disorders in their lifetime.

There are fewer than 400 psychiatrists and 500 psychologists in the country to support them, however, as well as a widespread stigma attached to speaking openly about personal mental health and wellbeing.

The new partnership will educate people in Pakistan on the services and help available to those with mental health issues.

It will also try to encourage people to be open about their problems in the hope more people will seek help.

As part of the partnership, Pakistan’s cricket players and staff will be encouraged to learn more about the issue and speak out about it.

This will include visits to local projects so they can find out about the work being done in country and meet individuals and families affected.

#BritishAsianTrust is delighted to announce our new three-year strategic partnership with @TheRealPCB to transform #mentalhealth in #Pakistan. Read more here: https://t.co/0Pm3O2Ice2 pic.twitter.com/VOdhvmM4b9

— British Asian Trust (@britishasiantst) April 17, 2019