The Australian High Commission, in collaboration with Kinnaird College for Women and the Pakistan Cricket Board, hosted the seventh AHC–Kinnaird Girls’ Cricket Cup. The tournament aimed to create opportunities for Pakistani girls through sport, promote teamwork, and build pathways for future success.

The tournament brought together students from diverse social and economic backgrounds. Cricket was used as a platform to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and strengthen values of inclusion and teamwork among young girls. The event also highlighted the strong people-to-people ties between Australia and Pakistan.

Australia’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, *Mr Timothy Kane*, praised the courage and determination of the players, noting that these young girls are challenging barriers faced by women and girls through sport.

He said:

> “Sport is a powerful tool through which girls and women can challenge social norms and highlight the importance of equality. Supporting girls’ cricket in Pakistan reflects our shared love of sport and our commitment to promoting equality and inclusion — not only today, but for future generations.”

The High Commissioner added:

> “As our men’s national teams prepare to play in Lahore ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, today is about focusing on Pakistan’s future women champions — enabling girls to dream big and create pathways to represent their communities and their country.”

Ahead of the tournament, a three-day coaching clinic was organised for the players with the support of the Pakistan Cricket Board. The clinic was led by players from Pakistan’s national women’s team and Under-19 team, who mentored and encouraged the participants.

Since 2016, with the support of the Pakistan Cricket Board and other partners, Australia’s support for girls’ cricket has expanded beyond Islamabad to Lahore and Karachi. During this period, several talented players have emerged, some of whom have gone on to represent Pakistan at the Under-19 national level.

Principal of Kinnaird College for Women, Dr Iram Anjum, said:

When girls play sport, they build confidence, learn leadership, and develop a strong sense of belonging. We are proud to partner with Australia in creating opportunities where young girls can grow and thrive.”

The following institutions participated in the tournament:

Government Shaheed APS Memorial Girls High School; Government Central Model School; Government Tehzeeb-ul-Banat Model Girls School; Government Yasmin Islamia Girls High School, Mughalpura; and Kinnaird Cricket Academy.