Lodhran witnessed a historic moment on Monday when young Shehar Bano, coming from a humble background, made her international cricket debut while representing Pakistan in the Women's Under-19 T20 Asia Cup against Nepal in Kuala Lumpur. Shehar Bano, the talented daughter of Liaqat Abbas, who is employed as a security guard at a private company, is a student at Amna Girls College who plays for Tareen Cricket Academy in Lodhran.
She is a left-arm fast bowler who has worked her way to the top through sheer determination. Her journey began in the outskirts of Lodhran, in a small village of 48/M, where she began to make her mark with hard work and good performances.
"I used to play cricket just for fun," shared Shehar Bano in an emotional interview. "During summer vacations, I attended a summer camp, and that's where everything changed. Slowly, I started practicing at the Tareen Cricket Academy, participated in the Under-19 trials, and eventually got selected for the national team."
"My family is thrilled and I owe this success to Ali Tareen and my coach, Mohammad Nadeem, who supported me throughout this journey," said Shehar Bano.
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," said Tareen.
