Peshawar, Pakistan – The Ufone 4G Presents Zalmi Women Cricket League concluded with resounding success, showcasing the immense talent and determination of women cricketers from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Organized by Peshawar Zalmi in collaboration with Ufone 4G, the league celebrated the transformative power of sports as a platform for empowerment and societal progress.
The league kicked off with an electrifying opening ceremony that united influential figures from sports and government, including Provincial Sports Minister Syed Fakhar Jahan, Provincial Education Minister Meena Khan Afridi, and Director of Cricketing Affairs Mohammad Akram. The highlight of the ceremony was the much-anticipated trophy reveal, symbolizing the spirit of competition, unity, and women’s empowerment.
The group stages featured thrilling performances from eight teams, with Hazara Daffodils, Peshawar Thunderbolts, Peshawar All Stars, and Mardan Mavericks emerging as the top four teams to reach the semi-finals.
The semi-finals raised the stakes even further. In a closely contested match, the Hazara Daffodils defeated Peshawar Thunderbolts by 13 runs to secure their place in the final. The second semi-final was a commanding display by the Peshawar All Stars, who overpowered the Mardan Mavericks by nine wickets, showcasing their batting and bowling prowess.
The grand final brought together the Hazara Daffodils and Peshawar All Stars in a gripping contest. The Peshawar All Stars emerged as champions, clinching the trophy with a decisive seven-wicket victory. The final match was a testament to the talent, determination, and competitive spirit of women cricketers in the region.
The league concluded with a spectacular closing ceremony, attended by prominent figures, including the Chief Guest Barrister Saif, Director of Cricketing Affairs Mohammad Akram, and Arshad Khan, Secretary to the Chief Minister.
The closing ceremony of the Ufone 4G Presents Zalmi Women Cricket League celebrated not only the victorious teams but also the exceptional individual performances that defined the tournament. Aleena Shah was named Player of the League for her all-round brilliance, consistently excelling with both bat and ball and making a significant impact on every game she played. Tehzeeb received the Best Batter award for her outstanding run-scoring abilities, showcasing consistency and skill throughout the league. Momina, with her exceptional bowling prowess, claimed the Best Bowler title, proving to be a formidable force for opposing teams. The Best Fielder accolade was awarded to Sherish Qayum, whose agility, sharp reflexes, and game-changing fielding efforts stood out in every match. Behind the stumps, Nayab demonstrated her superior wicketkeeping skills, earning her the title of Best Wicketkeeper. Seema Gul was recognized as the Emerging Player of the League for her promising talent and impactful performances that hinted at a bright future in cricket. Adding to these honors, Saira Jabeen was crowned the Icon Player of the League for her exceptional performance. These individual accolades highlighted the incredible depth of talent and dedication among the participants, further cementing the success of this groundbreaking initiative.
Aligned with UN Women’s global campaign, 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the initiative emphasized the role of sports in promoting gender equality and addressing societal issues. By organizing the league during this significant period, Peshawar Zalmi and Ufone 4G reaffirmed their commitment to creating a culture of respect, inclusivity, and empowerment for women and girls.
Ufone 4G has played a pivotal role in the success of the Zalmi Women Cricket League through its unwavering commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). As a key partner. By supporting this league, Ufone 4G has reinforced its dedication to fostering gender equality and promoting opportunities for women across Pakistan, aligning seamlessly with its vision for social progress.
Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s support further amplified the significance of the event, demonstrating its commitment to the development of women in sports and their role in societal progress. Through initiatives like these, the government of KP continues to play a key role in empowering women and fostering an environment where they can excel in all fields, including sports.
The Zalmi Women Cricket League holds immense significance as a groundbreaking initiative, marking the first-ever league in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and ushering in a new era for sports and extracurricular activities in the region. This league not only fosters holistic development by encouraging youth participation in extracurriculars alongside academics but also highlights the excellence of the private sector.
Through innovative efforts like the Ufone 4G Presents Zalmi Women Cricket League, the Zalmi Foundation continues to lead the way in leveraging sports for social impact. This initiative not only fosters talent development and gender equity but also demonstrates how sports can transcend boundaries and inspire future generations.