Faisalabad Gears Up for National Women’s One-Day Tournament

The bustling industrial city of Faisalabad is set to host the revamped National Women’s One-Day Tournament, signaling a new era for women’s cricket in Pakistan. The tournament, which commences on Wednesday, marks a significant expansion and rebranding of the competition, showcasing the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) continued commitment to the growth and development of women’s cricket.

Previously contested by three sides – Blasters, Challengers, and Dynamites – under the Pakistan Cup Women’s Cricket Tournament banner, this year’s edition features six regional teams. The inclusion of additional teams underscores the PCB’s dedication to providing more opportunities for women cricketers to showcase their talent on a larger stage.

The tournament will follow a double-league 50-over format, ensuring each participating side plays a minimum of 10 matches. With a total prize money of PKR 2.245 million up for grabs, competition is expected to be fierce as teams vie for the coveted title.

The six regional sides competing in the tournament are Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Peshawar, Quetta, and Rawalpindi. The top two teams emerging after the 30 league matches will advance to the final on May 11, with the victorious side clinching the championship trophy along with a PKR one million cash prize.

Jawad Club Cricket Ground, Iqbal Stadium, and Bohranwali Cricket Ground have been designated as the main venues for the tournament, with the Saeed Ajmal Academy Ground serving as the reserve venue.

Leading the charge for their respective regions are captains Omaima Sohail (Karachi), Kaynat Hafeez (Lahore), Saima Malik (Quetta), Humna Bilal (Multan), Gull Rukh (Peshawar), and Mahnoor Aftab (Rawalpindi).

The action-packed opening day fixtures on Wednesday include Quetta facing off against Rawalpindi at Jawad Cricket Club Ground, Karachi taking on Multan at Iqbal Stadium, and Peshawar locking horns with Lahore at Bohranwali Cricket Ground.

Friday’s matches will see Quetta battling Peshawar at Iqbal Stadium, Lahore squaring off against Karachi at Jawad Club Cricket Ground, and Rawalpindi challenging Multan at Bohranwali Cricket Ground.

As Faisalabad prepares to host this exciting tournament, anticipation runs high among cricket enthusiasts eager to witness the next generation of women cricketers shine on the national stage.