Pakistan women’s cricket gets left behind as T20 league is postponed once again
In a move sparking disappointment and frustration, the Pakistan Cricket Board has delayed the launch of the highly anticipated Women’s T20 League, which was originally promised over three years ago. This decision was delivered on the eve of the men’s PSL season and also saw the cancellation of a planned exhibition match featuring international players.
Despite holding an exhibition of matches featuring international players in 2023, Pakistan’s much-anticipated Women’s T20 League faces another setback. This time, the blame falls on the uncertainty of the leadership. Tania Mallick, head of the PCB women’s wing, points towards the lack of financial commitment from the interim management committee under Zaka Ashraf as the reason for the delay.
“It was quite disappointing for all of us…”
“The impression I got was they did not feel they were in a position to make such big financial decisions. What was conveyed to us was the next committee and administration would do this, ‘we don’t want to’. The interim management committee was not willing to commit. It was quite disappointing for all of us and I told the girls that repeatedly,” said Mallick during an interview with ESPN Cricinfo.
This news comes amidst a global boom in women’s cricket, with established leagues like the Women’s Premier League, Women’s Big Bash League and The Hundred attracting significant viewership and sponsorship. This delay raises concerns about Pakistan’s commitment to developing and promoting women’s cricket on an international stage. While the men’s League thrive, the women’s game stagnates, missing out on opportunities to showcase talent and inspire future generations. The delay also raises questions about Pakistan’s international standing at a time when women’s cricket is witnessing global growth.
Mallick’s statement sheds light on internal struggles, suggesting the interim committee prioritized other investments. This raises important questions about the PCB‘s long-term vision for women’s cricket and whether financial commitment will materialize with a new permanent chairman. Fans and players have expressed disappointment, highlighting the missed opportunity to showcase rising talent and inspire future generations. Experts on the other hand, point out the potential negative impact on player morale and Pakistan’s international standing.
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