Pakistan set for inaugural women's cricket league as Zalmi Foundation kicks off trials

Pakistan is gearing up for its first-ever women’s cricket league, with the Zalmi Foundation launching trials for aspiring female cricketers from Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The trials, part of the Girls Cricket Camp, kicked off on Monday at Government Post Graduate College, Rawalpindi.

The camp, aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women in sports, is a collaborative effort by the Zalmi Foundation, National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), and Dukhtar-e-Pakistan. 

Female students from universities across Rawalpindi and Islamabad participated, showcasing their cricketing skills for a chance to compete at the national level.

“This event is a turning point for women in sports in Pakistan,” said Dr Saima Hamid, Vice-Chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi. She praised the foundation for creating opportunities for young female athletes to shine.

Shabana Nawaz, Deputy Chief of NCSW, highlighted the initiative as a challenge to the status quo. “By empowering women in sports, we are promoting equality and encouraging girls to excel in all areas, including athletics,” she said.

Special Secretary at Pakistan’s Education Ministry, Mohayyudin Ahmad Wani, underscored the transformative power of combining education and sports, praising Zalmi Foundation’s bold step in supporting women’s sports development.

Abbas Layaq, an official from the Peshawar Zalmi Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise, commended the immense talent displayed during the trials, expressing excitement over the potential of the participants. He reaffirmed the commitment to providing resources and platforms for the young women to succeed.

The Girls Cricket Camp will continue on Tuesday, offering more participants the opportunity to showcase their skills and secure a spot in the inaugural women’s cricket league.