The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is currently under scrutiny due to its management of funds in relation to its men’s and women’s cricket teams. While the PCB is investing heavily in its new Champions One Day Cup and preparing for the upcoming Champions Trophy, reports have surfaced about the financial struggles faced by the women’s cricket team, particularly during the ongoing training camp in Multan.
Issues at the Training Camp
Since the beginning of September, the women’s cricket team has been engaged in a training camp in Multan, aimed at gearing up for the T20 series against South Africa and the T20 World Cup set to take place next month. However, amidst the preparations, it has come to light that the female cricketers have not been provided with their usual daily allowances. This situation has raised significant concerns and questions among players and fans alike. A recent report indicates that the PCB is citing a new policy as the reason behind this lack of financial support.
Understanding the PCB’s New Policy
A PCB official explained that the women cricketers are being offered three meals a day along with hotel accommodations during the training camp. This is a shift from previous camps where allowances were provided. According to the board, the current policy does not include separate allowances if players are receiving adequate meals and accommodation. In prior camps, players had received a nominal daily allowance in addition to their meals.
All set for the #PAKWvSAW series! Pakistan women’s team trains hard in Multan.#BackOurGirls
— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) September 13, 2024
This decision has created an atmosphere of frustration among the players, who feel undervalued and overlooked. They anticipated improved conditions and were disheartened by the PCB’s recent decision. Nonetheless, there is some hope for change, as PCB has promised that daily allowances will resume once the actual series is underway.
Unequal Treatment Amid Policy Changes
Interestingly, while the PCB’s new policy ostensibly applies to both men’s and women’s teams, the outcomes appear to differ significantly. The men’s team had similar arrangements during their recent training camps which included meal provisions, yet they still received daily allowances. This inconsistency has triggered further discontent and allegations of unequal treatment in the allocation of resources.
The Pakistani women’s cricket team is scheduled to face South Africa in a 3-match T20 series starting next week, followed by their participation in the T20 World Cup in the UAE later in October. As they prepare for these crucial matches, the need for equitable treatment and adequate financial support remains paramount for the development and morale of women’s cricket in Pakistan.
