Pakistan’s National Netball Team – All British Players Competing Internationally | Global Headlines

The Pakistan youth netball team, consisting only of British-based players, is participating in their inaugural major championship.

They aspire not only to excel but also to inspire British Asian and Muslim girls to embrace the sport.

Several team members had their aspirations of international competition dashed last year when they were unable to participate in the Asian Netball Championship in Bangalore due to visa delays by the Indian government.

Although the Cosmopolitan Roses Netball team, which these girls were part of, was prevented from participating, Pakistan Netball has since formed a team to compete in the Asian Youth Netball Championship under their national flag.

“It’s a moment of great pride for the participating girls,” says Sadia Hussain, co-founder of the UK-based Pakistan Netball Academy.

“Performance netball is commendable, but this is even more special. It’s a chance for them to represent their identity and heritage.”

Sadia recognizes that there are barriers in getting young Asian and Muslim girls to engage in netball.

Issues regarding appropriate sportswear and cultural and familial uncertainty can deter many girls.

However, she affirms that Pakistan Netball Academy, established two years ago to address under-representation, provides support and guidance for girls interested in the sport she loves.

Fortunately, the Asian Youth Netball Championship is being held in South Korea this time, eliminating the visa issues that previously held them back.

“It was hugely disappointing to miss out on the games in India,” says the team’s young captain Sumayya Safdar.

“But it has given us more determination to perform well, and more months to train and prepare.”

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