ISLAMABAD: Pakistan women’s cricket team captain Fatima Sana has urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (Pakistan Cricket Board) to launch a dedicated women’s franchise league, saying it is essential for the long-term growth of women’s cricket in the country.
Speaking to the media, the 24-year-old all-rounder said Pakistan is falling behind other leading cricket nations due to the absence of a structured franchise system for women players. She emphasized that such a league would provide much-needed exposure, financial stability, and international opportunities for emerging talent.
With the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, Fatima believes the timing is perfect for Pakistan to invest in its women’s cricket infrastructure. She said a domestic franchise competition could play a transformative role in developing future stars and improving overall performance at the international level.
“We have been waiting for a Pakistan Women’s Cricket League for a long time,” Fatima said. “I request PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi to launch this league. It will bring international players to Pakistan and also give our players opportunities abroad. This will benefit women’s cricket greatly.”
Fatima also highlighted how countries like India, Australia, and England have successfully strengthened their women’s cricket structures through franchise-based leagues. She pointed to India’s Women’s Premier League (WPL), Australia’s Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), and England’s The Hundred as strong examples of how domestic competitions can elevate the standard of the game.
She noted that these leagues have not only increased competitiveness but have also helped national teams improve significantly by exposing players to high-pressure environments and international talent.
The Pakistan captain stressed that adopting a similar model would help Pakistan remain competitive in the evolving global cricket landscape. She believes that a women’s franchise league would inspire young girls across the country to pursue cricket professionally.
Cricket experts also agree that the introduction of a structured league could be a game-changer for women’s sports in Pakistan, potentially unlocking new talent and boosting the national team’s consistency on the world stage.
Fatima’s appeal has sparked fresh discussion within cricket circles, with fans and analysts now waiting to see whether the PCB will respond positively to the growing demand for a women’s franchise league.
