Peshawar
The Peshawar Stars emerged victorious in the inaugural Zalmi Women’s Cricket League defeating the Hazara Region by 7 wickets in the final to claim the championship title. A vibrant closing ceremony was held to mark the occasion with Adviser to CM Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for Information and Public relations Barrister Saif serving as the chief guest.
Accompanying him at the event were Test cricketer Arshad Khan, Secretary of Higher Education Department Kamran Afridi,Director Peshawar Zalmi Mohammad Akram, Vice-Chancellor of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University Professor Dr. Safia Ahmed, Vice-Chancellor of Islamia College University Professor Dr. Ali Mohammad, Director of Sports Peshawar University Bahar Karam, and professors from various colleges and universities. A large number of students from different educational institutions also attended the final match.
Addressing the gathering Barrister Saif commended Peshawar Zalmi and the Higher Education Department for organizing an excellent event to showcase the talents of young girls in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He emphasized that youth are the future and it is the provincial government’s responsibility to prioritize their development. He encouraged the players by saying that winning and losing are part of the game and setbacks often fuel greater determination and passion for success.
He also highlighted the importance of such activities for women’s empowerment calling them essential for national progress.
Director Peshawar Zalmi Mohammad Akram thanked the provincial government and players from all districts for their support. He stated that Peshawar Zalmi is equally focused on women’s cricket as on men’s which is why they are organizing various activities for women. He expressed hope that the league would continue in the future and help nurture the abundant talent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In the final match Hazara Region batted first and managed to score 50 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in the allotted overs with Raima scoring 17 runs as the top batter. For Peshawar Fatima took 3 wickets Sima 2 while Zeb-un-Nisa and Maria claimed 1 wicket each.
In response Peshawar chased the target with 3 wickets down thanks to Fatima’s 21-run contribution. From Hazara Maqadas claimed 2 wickets.
It is noteworthy that eight teams from all regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa participated in the Zalmi Women’s Cricket League with Hazara Region and Peshawar Stars qualifying for the final.
