Australia invests in Pakistan’s future through 7th Annual Girls’ Cricket Cup
By Nawaz Gohar ; The Australian High Commission, in collaboration with Kinnaird College for Women and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), organized the 7th AHC-Kinnaird Girls’ Cricket Cup.
The tournament aimed to provide opportunities for Pakistani girls through sports, promoting teamwork and creating pathways for advancement.
Students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds participated in the tournament. Cricket was utilized as a platform to boost the girls’ self-confidence, refine their leadership skills, and strengthen the spirit of inclusivity. The event also highlighted the robust people-to-people ties between Australia and Pakistan.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Timothy Kane, lauded the courage and morale of the players, stating that these girls are challenging the barriers faced by women and girls through sports.
He remarked: “Sports is a powerful medium through which girls and women can change societal mindsets and highlight the importance of equality. Our support for girls’ cricket in Pakistan reflects our shared passion for the game and our commitment to promoting equality and inclusion—not just for today, but for generations to come.”
The High Commissioner added: “While our men’s national teams are playing in Lahore ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, today is about focusing on Pakistan’s future women champions—so that girls can dream big and pave the way to represent their communities and their country.”
Prior to the tournament, a three-day coaching clinic was held for the players with the support of the PCB. The clinic was led by players from Pakistan’s National Women’s Team and the Under-19 team, who mentored and encouraged the young participants.
Since 2016, with the cooperation of the PCB and other partners, Australia’s support for girls’ cricket has expanded beyond Islamabad to Lahore and Karachi. During this period, several talented players have emerged, some of whom went on to represent Pakistan’s National Under-19 team.
Rafia Haider, Head of Pakistan Women’s Cricket, commented on the tournament’s impact: “Platforms like these are essential for scouting talent and building confidence in girls. With continuous support, these girls can become the future of Pakistan Women’s Cricket.”
Dr. Iram Anjum, Principal of Kinnaird College for Women, said: “When girls play, they become self-confident, learn leadership, and develop a strong sense of belonging. We are proud to partner with Australia to create opportunities where young girls can excel.”
The following institutions participated in the tournament: Government Shuhada-e-APS Memorial Girls High School; Government Central Model School; Government Tehzeeb-ul-Banat Model Girls School; Government Yasmin Islamia Girls High School, Mughalpura and Kinnaird Cricket Academy.
