Invincibles, Stars to play National Women’s One-Day final

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board has curtailed the National Women’s One-Day Tournament 2024-25 following a fire incident at a team hotel in Karachi.

Five players who were at the hotel at the time were safely evacuated and relocated to the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre, according to a PCB statement. No injuries were reported.

The fire broke out on Monday when four teams competed in fifth-round matches, while the Strikers were busy in a training session. While the situation was promptly handled, the PCB deemed it necessary to prioritize the health and safety of players and officials.

The board also cited the unavailability of alternative accommodations meeting the required standards for around 100 players and staff as a key factor in its decision to curtail the tournament.

To conclude the event, the PCB announced that the top two teams after four completed matches, the Invincibles and the Stars, will compete in the final to determine the champion. Details about the date and venue for the final will be announced in due course. The PCB reaffirmed its commitment to player safety, stating, “While it is regrettable to truncate the tournament, the well-being of players and officials remains our top priority.”

The incident has raised concerns about logistical challenges faced by domestic women’s cricket tournaments in Pakistan, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and contingency plans.