The 8th AHC-PCB Girls’ Cricket Cup concluded in Islamabad, showcasing the power of sport to break barriers and empower young girls in Pakistan.
Hosted by the Australian High Commission (AHC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), with support from Serena Hotels, the week-long event was a celebration of talent, confidence, and gender equality.
The tournament brought together over 60 girls from four Islamabad schools, offering them the chance to develop their cricketing skills and foster a sense of teamwork and confidence. Teams from Mashal Model School Bari Imam, SOS Children’s Village H-11, Islamabad Model School for Girls – F-6/1, and Islamabad Model School for Girls I-9/1 competed in a thrilling contest that culminated in a spirited final match.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Neil Hawkins, was present to witness the final game. He expressed his admiration for the players and underscored the importance of sport as a tool for empowerment.
“The smiles on the girls’ faces say it all. Sport is a great motivator – it builds teamwork and confidence. Cricket is a passion that binds Australia and Pakistan, it makes perfect sense for us to support this wonderful event,” said High Commissioner Hawkins.
The event, which has grown significantly since its inception in 2016, reflects the ongoing commitment of the Australian High Commission to support girls’ cricket in Pakistan. What began as a tournament in Islamabad has expanded to include Lahore and Karachi, empowering girls across the nation.
“It’s not just about boundaries on the pitch but also overcoming boundaries in life. Every ball bowled, every catch taken, helps promote gender empowerment. Pakistan faces many challenges as we all know, but they can only be overcome if the potential of ALL Pakistanis – men and women – is utilized,” Ambassador Hawkins said.
In the lead-up to the final match, PCB’s first-class coaches conducted an intensive five-day coaching clinic, equipping the young athletes with essential skills to excel both on and off the field. The clinic not only sharpened their cricketing abilities but also boosted their confidence, fostering a sense of self-belief that extended beyond the boundaries of the game.
Aziz Boolani, CEO of Serena Hotels, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative. “This is an outstanding platform that empowers young girls by providing access to professional coaching and opportunities to develop their cricketing skills. This initiative not only nurtures future talent but also serves as a launchpad for their cricketing careers.”
He added that “Serena Hotels, in collaboration with the Australian High Commission and the Pakistan Cricket Board, conceived this idea seven years ago to inspire and empower young girls through the transformative power of sports.”
The 8th AHC-PCB Girls’ Cricket Cup stands as a testament to the progress made in supporting gender equality and the empowerment of young girls in Pakistan. It is a reminder that sport, beyond entertainment, has the potential to bring about meaningful change and create opportunities for future generations.