KARACHI: Former Pakistan Test cricketer and Level IV coach Jalaluddin had an in depth session with US Consulate Karachi’s Lincoln Corner about “Empowering Women Through Sports” last Friday.

The session was about empowering Pakistani women through sports particularly in cricket. Jalaluddin shared his pioneering work for Pakistani women cricket, both on a grass root level as well as his role as Chief Selector of Pakistan women’s cricket team.

Lincoln Corners are partnerships between the Embassy of the United States of America and selected institutions in Pakistan. They are multi-media resource centers, where visitors can connect and learn about America in many different ways.

The session was moderated by Mahira Ahmed Miyanji, who is an IVLP alumna and winner of NPeace Award by the United Nations Development Programme for Pakistan.

Jalauddin talked about challenges faced by girls in pursuing sports as a career in Pakistan particularly the social/cultural barriers, safety of women and logistical concerns. Jalaluddin, now an internationally known cricket analyst, said: “Pakistani parents are not comfortable when they see that these three things are not met, especially in the remote areas of Pakistan. That is precisely what my efforts for women’s cricket at Customs Cricket Academy achieved — a safe space, logistical support and cultural/social integration.’

One of the biggest concerns in women sports all over the world is equal pay. Jalaluddin addressed the equal pay concerns in the Pakistani women’s cricket by saying: “It is majorly a marketing and sponsorship issue which is based on viewership and high standard of the game. This is what our girls in green are struggling to overcome in the national team.”

Mahira was keen to ask which female athlete inspired Jalaluddin and why? He instantly answered: “Diana Baig!” Diana is the Pakistan national women team player and pace bowler. Jalal went to explain why Diana Baig inspired him, “Her story of coming from the remote areas of Pakistan [Gilgit-Baldistan] and then be able to make her mark in the women’s national team is awe-inspiring. Along with that, she has unmatched work ethic, exceptional fitness and is a consummate team player,” said Jalaluddin.

He concluded the session with his insights on the future of women’s cricket in Pakistan. “I am extremely optimistic about women’s cricket both in Pakistan and elsewhere because of ICC’s increased focus on women’s cricket and the long-term health of the women’s game.”

“As for my personal efforts for women’s cricket development, I have already done ground-breaking work in Pakistan which have produced national team players Aroob Shah, Ramin Shamim, Fatima Sana and others. I have plans for girl’s school cricket projects in 2021 as well as long-term development program. Keep a look out for that!”

Published in Dawn, December 19th, 2020