QUETTA, Pakistan: Pakistan’s Balochistan province is witnessing encouraging progress in women’s cricket as Khairun Nisa Baloch, the province’s first woman cricket coach, helps young girls pursue their sporting ambitions and develop the skills needed to compete at higher levels.
The 26-year-old coach is inspiring a new generation of female cricketers by providing professional training and encouraging families to support their daughters’ participation in sports.
Having played cricket for more than seven years, Nisa turned to coaching after facing limited opportunities to advance her own playing career.
She completed Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) coaching courses and began her professional coaching journey in 2019.
Opening Doors for Young Cricketers
Nisa has been visiting schools and encouraging girls to take up cricket, creating opportunities for students who previously struggled to access professional training.
Her presence as a woman coach has also helped families feel more comfortable allowing their daughters to attend cricket academies.
ALSO READ: After Gulf Cup, Saudi Arabia Sets Sights On Asian Glory
One of her students said she had always dreamed of becoming a cricketer but initially faced difficulties obtaining her parents’ permission to train outside school.
After joining Nisa’s academy, she developed important cricketing techniques and now hopes to represent Pakistan internationally.
Building Pakistan’s Next Generation of Talent
Nisa believes the province has considerable untapped cricketing potential and hopes to see more players follow the example of Quetta-born former Pakistan international Nahida Khan.
“Many talented women cricket players are practising under my supervision,” she said, highlighting their commitment to improving their fitness and skills.
Efforts to promote women’s cricket have also received institutional support.
In 2021, the Balochistan government, with assistance from Pakistan Super League franchise Quetta Gladiators, organised a national women’s cricket tournament, giving local players valuable competitive exposure.
National Representation
Nisa believes regular tournaments, improved facilities and structured development programmes can help more talented girls progress towards professional cricket.
Her long-term ambition is to prepare players capable of representing Pakistan at the highest level.
“I am very much optimistic that they can play for the national team in the future,” she said. “It would be a proud moment for me.”
Through her coaching efforts, Nisa is helping young women transform their passion for cricket into meaningful sporting opportunities while contributing to the development of women’s cricket in Pakistan.
