Nahida Khan, a trailblazer in women’s cricket from Balochistan, is ready to embark on a new chapter in her cricketing journey. After a successful playing career that spanned 14 years, Nahida is now embracing the role of a coach in the upcoming Pakistan Cup Women’s Cricket Tournament. The 36-year-old former opener will serve as the assistant coach for the Blasters, led by captain Muneeba Ali.
Nahida’s remarkable journey began when she shattered the glass ceiling and became the first female cricketer from Balochistan to represent Pakistan. As a right-handed batter, she established herself as a permanent opener in the national side and showcased her talent with eight half-centuries, all in One-Day Internationals. Throughout her career, Nahida accumulated 2,014 runs in 120 matches, with her last international appearance being in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in New Zealand.
Eager to take on new challenges, Nahida’s transition into coaching has been seamless. During practice sessions at the State Bank Ground, she shares her wealth of knowledge about batting with aspiring cricketers, while engaging in in-depth discussions about bowling plans with all-rounder Kainat Imtiaz. Despite being renowned as an opener, Nahida also holds the record for the most catches in an innings in ODIs, having taken four catches in a match against Sri Lanka in 2018, contributing to Pakistan’s resounding 94-run victory.
Expressing her enthusiasm for her new coaching role, Nahida said, “I have always been willing to take up new challenges since my childhood, and that helped me grow. I have had a passion for coaching, and as a player, I was always curious about this art.” She feels privileged to guide and mentor the next generation of players, especially those with whom she has shared the field as teammates.
Nahida’s decision to pursue coaching has been met with widespread support and excitement. With her deep understanding of the game and years of experience, she received certifications from the PCB and ACC, further solidifying her credibility as a coach. She previously deputized as the assistant coach for the Amazons, led by head coach Taufeeq Umar, during the Women’s League exhibition matches. The Amazons emerged victorious in the three-match series, which was part of the PCB’s efforts to pave the way for the launch of the women’s T20 league.
Reflecting on her coaching stint with the Amazons, Nahida shared, “Coaching the Amazons team in the Women’s League exhibition matches was a fantastic experience. It was a privilege to work with talented players from different countries, exchanging ideas and strategies to enhance the game.”
Beyond her coaching role, Nahida aspires to be an inspiration for millions of girls who dream of pursuing cricket as a profession. She hopes to be seen as an example, motivating aspiring cricketers and encouraging them to consider various roles in the sport, even if they are unable to become players themselves.
Looking ahead to the Pakistan Cup Women’s Cricket Tournament, Nahida exudes confidence in the Blasters’ potential for success. “I believe the Blasters team has immense potential,” she expressed. “We have strong combinations, and there are high expectations from this talented group. With Muneeba Ali leading the team, I am excited to witness her performance as a captain. I am eager to contribute to their growth and witness the team achieve great success.”
Having claimed numerous domestic titles throughout her playing career, Nahida now seeks to add coaching accolades to her list of achievements. As she embraces this
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