ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is on the verge of launching its inaugural women’s cricket league, with trials for aspiring female cricketers from Rawalpindi and Islamabad kicking off on Monday. The initiative is being spearheaded by the Zalmi Foundation, a non-profit focused on skills development, with the aim of empowering women in sports and promoting gender equality through inclusive platforms.
The first day of trials for the Girls Cricket Camp, held at the Government Post Graduate College in Rawalpindi, saw participation from students representing various universities across the Rawalpindi and Islamabad regions. The event provided young women with an opportunity to showcase their talent and compete for a chance to play at the national level.
Dr. Saima Hamid, Vice-Chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Women’s University, highlighted the significance of the event. “This marks a pivotal moment for women in sports in Pakistan,” she said. “The Zalmi Foundation is creating a platform where young women can thrive and break barriers.”
Shabana Nawaz, Deputy Chief of the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), praised the initiative for challenging traditional norms, stating, “By empowering women in sports, we are promoting equality and creating a future where girls are not just encouraged but expected to excel in all areas, including sports.”
Mohayyudin Ahmad Wani, Special Secretary at the Ministry of Education, also emphasized the power of education and sports working together to transform lives. “The collaboration between Zalmi Foundation, NCSW, and Dukhtar-e-Pakistan is setting a new standard for empowering women in Pakistan,” he remarked.
Abbas Layaq, a senior official from Pakistan Super League’s Peshawar Zalmi franchise, expressed optimism over the talent displayed during the trials, noting the “immense potential” of the participants. “We are fully committed to providing the necessary resources and platform for these talented women to succeed,” he said.
The Girls Cricket Camp will continue on Tuesday, offering more participants the chance to demonstrate their skills and secure a spot in Pakistan’s first women’s cricket league.
