Pakistan’s Women’s National Cricket Team in Chelmsford (Kieran Galvin, ActionFotoSport).
Pakistani women’s cricket stands at a crucial juncture. With recent international visibility and individual stars like Nida Dar, Bismah Maroof, and Diana Baig capturing public attention, the time is ripe to consolidate gains and push forward. However, significant hurdles remain – from institutional support to societal acceptance – and overcoming these challenges will be key to the sport’s long-term growth and success.
One of the most immediate needs is consistent investment in infrastructure. Unlike their male counterparts, women’s teams often lack access to quality training facilities, equipment, and regular domestic tournaments. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken initial steps by increasing the number of domestic competitions and integrating the women’s team into broader national development programs. However, expanding grassroots-level cricket programs for girls in schools, colleges, and local clubs is essential. Setting up regional academies for women with professional coaching and fitness training would ensure a steady pipeline of skilled players.
Visibility is vital for growth. Media coverage of women’s matches is sporadic at best. Without regular broadcasting and social media engagement, it’s difficult for players to become household names and inspire future generations. Partnerships with broadcasters and digital platforms can change this landscape. Moreover, brands and corporate sponsors must step up – investing not just in the national team but also in domestic and school-level competitions. Initiatives like the Women’s T20 Challenge or even a localized league modeled after the PSL can boost interest and income.
The push must also come from within society. In many Pakistani households, girls are still discouraged from pursuing sports. Early intervention through inclusive school sports programs can help shift this mindset. Role models like Sana Mir, who broke barriers and spoke openly about the challenges female athletes face, can influence public opinion and encourage families to support their daughters. Educational institutions have a vital role to play in normalizing girls’ participation in sports and offering equal opportunities for growth.
Several individuals and organizations are already helping pave the way. Former captain Sana Mir has been a vocal advocate for women’s cricket and continues to mentor young players. The PCB Women’s Wing, led by officials like Tania Mallick, has shown commitment to professionalizing the sport. International cricket bodies like the ICC have also offered support through funding and tournaments aimed at developing women’s teams from associate and full-member nations.
NGOs working on gender equality and sports development, like Right to Play and Khelo Kricket, have launched programs to bring cricket to underserved girls. Government bodies, too, can enhance their role by incorporating sports into national development goals for women and ensuring equitable distribution of resources.
For Pakistani women’s cricket to succeed, it will require a collaborative, multi-tiered effort. With continued investment, increased media visibility, stronger grassroots programs, and broader societal support, the sport can not only thrive but also reshape cultural narratives around women in public life. The success of women’s cricket is more than just athletic victory – it’s a statement about inclusion, resilience, and national progress.
By Sara Zahoor
Sara Zahoor is a current undergraduate student at Trinity College, pursuing a B.A. in Public Policy & Law with a concentration in Policy Analysis. She can be contacted at @ssarazahoor@gmail.com.
Here at Women Living Under Muslim Law, we believe it’s not only important, but vital to acknowledge and share the achievements of women. To claim their equal citizenship, as well as the right to both shape and reshape cultural settings that have historically excluded women, much to the detriment of national and global prosperity.