ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has decided to form its own professional women’s cricket team in a push towards gender equality, as a six-team T20 league began at the National Cricket Ground on Monday night.

After trials, in which over 300 girls from across the country participated, the CDA selected six teams for the tournament, which carries a prize money of Rs600,000.

The floodlit tournament was inaugurated by CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa. CDA Member Administration Talat Mahmood, Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, Chief Officer Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad Dr Anam Fatima, parents and participating teams attended the opening ceremony.

Speaking to Dawn, the CDA chief said that on the direction of Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, the authority was sponsoring girls’ cricket in Islamabad to promote gender equality through sports. “Our mission is to support women cricketers, helping them showcase their talent at the national and international level,” he said, adding that it was a matter of pride that two young players, including Maham Anees and Pakistan U-19 captain Eman Naseer, are representing the country in international matches.

Both said players, besides dozens others, have been training at the CDA Academy G-6 under the supervision of first-class cricketer Naveed Ahmed.

The CDA chief said that after the tournament, talented players would be inducted into the authority.

“Sports can help tear down barriers and stereotypes, and we are happy that girls are enjoying every moment of this match,” he said.

“Let me announce this big news. We will form our own team, and those players who perform brilliantly in this tournament will be selected for the CDA team,” he said, adding that at the closing ceremony, both U-19 players would also be awarded shields.

CDA Director Sports Waqas Ali Khan appreciated the CDA chief for providing funding and patronage for the event.

“We have been taking every possible step for the promotion of sports in Islamabad. After this tournament, we will conduct a men’s event as well at the same venue,” he said.

Published in Dawn, February 24th, 2026