Bismah Maroof, the ex-skipper of Pakistan women’s cricket team has raised her voice for a significant stride in women’s cricket development, advocating for the establishment of a dedicated league akin to the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Expressing disappointment over the absence of exhibition matches for women cricketers in the ongoing PSL 9, Maroof emphasized the crucial role such matches play in fostering talent and visibility.
Reflecting on missed opportunities in the current PSL season, Maroof recalled the value of past exhibition matches and stressed the importance of providing similar platforms for women cricketers. She highlighted the benefits of playing alongside foreign players, citing it as a means for skill enhancement and exposure to different playing styles.
“There are no exhibition matches for women cricketers in PSL 9, which is disappointing,”
“It is very important for women cricketers to have a league like the PSL. Last year, we had exhibition matches during the PSL and foreign players also participated. It was promised to hold our exhibition matches during the current season of the PSL, but unfortunately, our exhibition matches did not take place.”
Additionally, Maroof underscored the positive impact of sharing the dressing room with international cricketers, noting its influence on players’ growth and confidence. Looking ahead, she discussed the upcoming series against West Indies as pivotal for the Pakistan women’s cricket team, aiming to maintain the momentum gained from the recent tour of New Zealand.
“Playing with foreign players provides a great opportunity to learn and sharing the dressing room also benefits, the skills improve, which is why our results improved after that,”
Meanwhile, PSL 9 is reaching its decisive phase with intense competition for a spot in the eliminators. Matches are underway across four cities: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, with anticipation building towards the final match scheduled at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on March 18. As cricket fervor grips the nation, Maroof’s advocacy for a women’s cricket league stands as a significant step towards gender inclusivity and the advancement of the sport in Pakistan.
Also, see:
Will Rain Wash Out the PSL Party in Rawalpindi? Here’s the Forecast for Match 17 and 18
