LODHRAN, Pakistan: In an inspirational turn of events, the talented daughter of a security guard from Pakistan made her international cricket debut, shattering the proverbial glass ceiling.
Representing Pakistan in the Women’s Under-19 T20 Asia Cup, Shehar Bano, played her first match against Nepal in Malaysia. This marks a proud milestone for her family back in Lodhran, a region in the southern part of the Punjab province where women face challenges in overcoming social barriers to excel in traditionally unconventional fields.
A player of the Tareen Cricket Academy, Bano is a left-arm fast bowler who has worked her way to the top through sheer determination. Her journey began humbly on the outskirts of Lodhran, in the small village of 48/M, where her father, Liaqat Abbas, works as a security guard for a private company.
“I used to play cricket just for fun,” shared Shehar Bano in an emotional interview. “During summer vacation, I attended a summer camp, and that’s where everything changed. Slowly, I started practising at the Tareen Cricket Academy, participated in the Under-19 trials, and eventually got selected for the national team.
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My family is thrilled, and I owe this success to Ali Tareen and my coach, Mohammad Nadeem, who supported me throughout this journey.”
The Tareen Cricket Academy provided her with vital facilities, including equipment like bats, pads, and kits. “If it weren’t for the academy, I wouldn’t be here. We all practice together there,” she added.
On her debut, head coach Mohsin Kamal presented her with the debut cap, and the team management and players congratulated her on starting her international career. Ali Tareen, the owner of the Tareen Cricket Academy and the Multan Sultans T20 franchise, also celebrated her achievement, stating, “Shehar Bano is a star, and her debut is a proud moment for Lodhran. Today, we are reminded of why investing in local talent is so important. This is just the beginning—we will continue our efforts to promote women’s cricket and natural young talent.”
