The Pakistan AFL Women’s team took a significant step forward in their journey to the AFL Asia Cup 2024 with trials held at the Star Cricket Ground in G-9, Islamabad. This rigorous selection process, conducted on Sunday, saw an impressive turnout of 60 talented female players from across the nation. With enthusiasm and dedication evident among participants, selectors finalized a squad of 24 women who will join the training camp in Islamabad to represent Pakistan on the international stage.
Pakistan Women Ready for AFL Asia Cup Challenge in Vietnam
The AFL Asia Cup, scheduled to take place from December 6 to 8 in Vietnam, will bring together teams from 16 countries, including cricket-loving rivals Pakistan and India. Both men’s and women’s teams from Pakistan will compete, showcasing their skills and passion in a sport that is rapidly gaining popularity in the region. This marks a significant opportunity for Pakistan’s AFL athletes, especially the women’s team, as they step onto an international platform to compete and excel.
Selection Trials Attract Talent Nationwide
The trials were overseen by key officials, including Pakistan AFL Secretary General Chaudhry Zulfiqar, Director of Women’s AFL Irfan Khan, and Chief Selector Abid Hussain. These officials ensured the trials were conducted smoothly, giving each player an equal chance to display her abilities. Through a rigorous evaluation of skills, physical fitness, and game sense, the selectors narrowed down the field to 24 players who will proceed to the training camp.
“We are thrilled with the turnout and the level of talent we saw at the trials. Pakistan has a promising pool of players, and we are confident that our selected team will represent the country with pride and competitive spirit in Vietnam,” shared Chaudhry Zulfiqar.
Intensive Training Camp to Prepare for International Competition
The selected 24 women will now participate in a focused training camp beginning next week in Islamabad. This camp will play a critical role in preparing the team for the AFL Asia Cup, as coaches and selectors refine tactics, enhance player conditioning, and instill strategies for effective teamwork. With the AFL Asia Cup being a demanding event, this camp aims to build team cohesion, hone skills, and ensure players are fully prepared to face the best from across Asia.
“We look forward to intense training sessions where players will be groomed not just for skill enhancement but also to develop a strong team bond essential for success in the AFL Asia Cup,” commented Irfan Khan, Director Women’s AFL.
Growing Popularity of AFL in Pakistan
Australian Rules Football, commonly known as AFL, has been making strides in Pakistan, with an increasing number of players—both men and women—embracing the sport. The inclusion of Pakistan’s women in such prestigious international competitions is a testament to the country’s expanding footprint in AFL and the tireless efforts of organizations and individuals promoting the sport locally.
Pakistan’s participation in the AFL Asia Cup not only strengthens the country’s presence on an international scale but also inspires young athletes, particularly women, to pursue a career in AFL. As the team prepares to represent Pakistan in Vietnam, hopes are high, and the players are determined to make their country proud.
