Waqar Ali Syed — The Driving Force Behind Karachi Blues’ Fitness Revolution
In the competitive world of domestic cricket, where every run and wicket counts, physical fitness often makes the real difference between winning and losing. For Karachi Blues, that edge has come from the dedication and expertise of their Strength and Conditioning Coach, Waqar Ali Syed, who has quietly become one of the most hardworking and committed professionals in Pakistan’s domestic circuit.
Throughout the Hanif Mohammad Trophy, Waqar has been at the heart of the team’s preparation. From long hours in the gym to on-field fitness drills, he has ensured that every player remains in top physical shape and ready to perform at their peak. His relentless work ethic and attention to detail have earned him immense respect among players and coaching staff alike.
What sets Waqar apart is his unique combination of academic knowledge and practical experience. Holding an MSc in Sports Sciences, he understands the science behind performance, recovery, and injury prevention. But unlike many coaches who operate solely from the sidelines, Waqar remains an active wicketkeeper-batter at club level, which keeps him closely connected to the physical and mental challenges that modern-day cricketers face.
This blend of theory and practice has helped him design training programs that are both effective and realistic — programs that push players hard but also help them recover smartly. His approach focuses on developing all-round athleticism — strength, speed, agility, and endurance — while ensuring that players remain fresh and injury-free throughout the season.
At just 31 years of age, Waqar’s journey is already impressive. He has worked with several prominent setups, including the Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League, and has also contributed to teams such as HEC and Karachi in the first-class circuit. His growing profile is a testament to years of consistent effort, learning, and passion for the game.
Waqar is also the first to acknowledge those who played an important role in his career. He credits Pakistan’s champion captain, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and all-rounder Anwar as two of the biggest influences and supporters of his journey — first as a player and later as a coach. “Sarfaraz Bhai and Anwar Bhai always encouraged me to stay focused and work hard,” Waqar often says. “Their belief in me gave me the confidence to keep improving.”
He also expresses deep gratitude toward Azam Khan, a well-known figure in Karachi cricket, for his continuous guidance and encouragement. Waqar acknowledges that senior trainers such as Rashid Qureshi, Imran Khalil, and Taimoor Mahmood have been instrumental in shaping his methods and professional discipline.
Waqar also extends his special thanks to Quetta Gladiators’ owner Nadeem Omar and Hassan Omar for trusting his abilities and giving him the opportunity to work with the franchise in the Pakistan Super League. Their faith in his skills, he says, played a big part in his development as a fitness professional. He equally appreciates Saud Shakeel, the Karachi Blues and Quetta Gladiators captain, for his confidence and trust in Waqar’s methods during domestic competitions and Pakistan Super League.
Working under the leadership of head coach Iqbal Imam, Waqar has continued to deliver his best during the Hanif Mohammad Trophy, ensuring Karachi Blues remain one of the fittest and most prepared units in the competition. As the team now turns its focus toward the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Waqar’s role becomes even more crucial.
His ultimate goal is clear — to help players perform consistently at the highest level, and to keep raising the standard of fitness and professionalism in Pakistan’s domestic cricket. With his passion, knowledge, and tireless dedication, Waqar Ali Syed represents the new generation of sports professionals driving the game forward — one training session at a time.
