Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Hina Munawar as the first female manager of the Pakistan men's cricket team ahead of the highly anticipated Champions Trophy.

Hina Munawar - who has an extensive background in law enforcement and security operations- will also oversee the team during the upcoming Tri-Nation series scheduled to begin on February 19 in Karachi.

Munawar’s appointment has generated considerable interest within cricketing circles, as it marks a historic moment for the sport, particularly in a traditionally male-dominated environment.

She will serve as the Operations Manager during the Champions Trophy, which will see Pakistan facing off against formidable opponents. While senior bureaucrat Naveed Akram Cheema will continue as the team manager, Munawar's new role brings a unique mix of experience in security and operational management.

A graduate of the Civil Superior Services (CSS) exam, Hina Munawar has worked in various security and law enforcement roles. She notably served in the Frontier Constabulary in Swat, a region long affected by security challenges, where she made history as the first female district officer.

Her experience in managing high-risk operations and streamlining security measures within challenging environments has earned her a reputation as a strategic leader.

Before joining the PCB, Munawar’s credentials included serving in numerous roles within law enforcement agencies, equipping her with skills that align closely with the responsibilities of managing national sports teams. Sources close to the PCB revealed that her appointment is part of a broader effort to streamline operations and enhance coordination between the players and the cricket board.

Having joined the PCB in 2024, Munawar was appointed as the manager for the Pakistan Women’s U-19 squad, accompanying the team to the Asia Cup.

This role provided her valuable exposure to the intricacies of cricket team management, a rare opportunity for someone with a law enforcement background.