The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has ushered in a new era of progress by awarding game-changing 11-month domestic contracts to 74 exceptional women cricketers.
This momentous leap not only underscores the PCB’s dedication to women’s cricket but also spotlights the remarkable talents of these players.
The recipients of these contracts encompass a remarkable blend of talent – 59 emerging prospects and U19 talents, along with 14 seasoned players who have previously adorned Pakistan’s senior women’s team.
This unprecedented initiative stands as a testament to their outstanding performances across various cricketing arenas, from domestic tournaments to emerging competitions, U19 domestic clashes, and even the prestigious ICC U19 Women’s World Cup.
The selection process, meticulously orchestrated by the national women’s selection committee under the stewardship of former Test cricketer Saleem Jaffar, has incorporated invaluable insights from national and academy coaches.
The much-anticipated announcement by the Pakistan Cricket Board on August 16 has solidified this transformative move. This milestone move serves a dual purpose: not only does it celebrate the relentless dedication and accomplishments of these athletes, but it also paves the way for an unprecedented era of excellence in Pakistan’s women’s cricket.
The unwavering commitment of the Pakistan Cricket Board, led by Management Committee Chairperson Zaka Ashraf, is evident in its resolute determination to nurture the growth of women’s cricket. This includes establishing sustainable career paths and igniting aspirations among women to embrace and excel in the sport.
In the words of PCB Management Committee Head Zaka Ashraf, “Today, we salute the remarkable talent and unwavering commitment of these 74 women cricketers who have rightfully earned their contracts. This isn’t just paperwork; it’s a profound investment in their dreams and ambitions.”
The prowess of our women cricketers has consistently shone on the field, and it is high time we provide them with the platform they truly deserve. Ashraf further added, “We firmly believe that empowering these athletes will not only raise the bar for women’s cricket but also inspire a new generation of girls to step into the world of sports.”
As Pakistan gears up for an enthralling women’s cricket season set to commence on September 1, the PCB’s steadfast dedication comes to the forefront once again.
Going beyond the contracts, the presence of eight cricket academies across the nation stands as a testament to the commitment to nurture women’s cricket. These academies will play a pivotal role in honing the skills of these exceptional athletes.
It is important to note that players under these domestic contracts will not be included in the upcoming women’s central contracts for the year 2023-24.
Details regarding these central contracts are set to follow. Alongside monthly retainers, the players holding these contracts will also enjoy match fees, daily allowances, and a share of the prize money – a comprehensive effort to support and uplift the women’s cricketing community.
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