"Imran Khan has become the mentor of our team and we are overjoyed with this development as he represents the best of Pakistan cricket and we will benefit immensely from his guidance and advice," Afridi told PTI.

Since his retirement in 1992, Imran has stayed away from taking up any role in active cricket in Pakistan and has become a leading political figure.

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Javed Afridi said Shahid had convinced Imran to mentor the Peshawar franchise which has made Zalmi "Youth" it theme word.

Javed Afridi said that Imran's association with his franchise was purely cricketing in nature. "We want the Pakistan Super League to benefit from the legacy and vision of Imran the cricketer."

Afridi admitted that even though Imran has a very busy schedule, the star has promised to take time out for the players of his franchise.

Imran inspired Pakistan to their only 50-over World Cup title win in 1992 and Afridi said they had signed him on as mentor because of the way he still inspires and is respected among the youth.

"Even if he has not played T20 cricket it doesn't matter what is important is his insight and views on cricket and how it should be played," he added.

He said that Imran's mentorship could lead to some of the youngsters in the team becoming future stars of Pakistan.