By Desmond Tunde Coker
Freetown, July 29, 2025 — Cricket Sierra Leone (CSL) proudly presented its National Senior Women’s Team and a collection of trophies and medals to the Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, following their runner-up finish at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Division 2 Qualifier in Gaborone, Botswana.
The celebratory event, held on Tuesday, marked the team’s second major international feat within three months, further solidifying the women’s growing legacy in Sierra Leone’s sports scene.
Presenting the team, CSL Vice Chairman Kobi Walker expressed immense pride in the players’ performance, saying they embodied passion and resilience despite traveling to Botswana without financial support. “Our players went to Botswana without a penny,” he lamented, calling for greater government involvement in supporting athletes, especially those nearing retirement.
Walker urged the government to consider providing plots of land to veteran players as a form of legacy, which could inspire younger women to pursue careers in the sport.
🏆 On the Road to the World Cup The CSL also announced that the national team will be heading to the Women’s T20 World Cup tournament in August, appealing for urgent government support to ensure their full participation.
A statement from the CSL Media Department emphasized the broader social benefits of sports for young women: “By supporting our ladies, you help discourage them from taking to drugs and prostitution.”
NSA Promises Funding and Presidential Engagement Receiving the team, Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai commended their achievements and issued an apology on behalf of the government for the lack of prior funding. He acknowledged the bureaucratic hurdles but vowed change: “We will start by supporting your local leagues this year. I will locate resources for you.”
Dr. Abdulai revealed efforts to schedule a meeting with President Julius Maada Bio so the team could present their trophies and raise concerns directly.
He also called for unity within CSL, asking Board Chairman Francis Trevor Samura to reconcile with those who feel sidelined.
Looking Ahead Team Captain Aminata Kamara closed the presentation by expressing gratitude to CSL for nurturing their talents and said they eagerly await the chance to meet the President.