By Alpha Barrie
The National Sports Authority’s Director of Participation and Sustainable Development, Steven Kelfala, has assured Cricket Sierra Leone of government’s supports in 2025,
In his statement at the Kingtom Police Oval after the final of the Women’s Cricket Premier League, on December 31, 2024, Director Kelfala emphasized the importance of women’s participation in sports and called on other sporting disciplines to invest in women athletes, commending Cricket Sierra Leone for organizing the league. “Having women in sport is part of our priorities,” Kelfala said, underlining the government’s focus on gender inclusion in sports.
Pamela Williams, Commissioner of Women and Sports, expressed her excitement at seeing more women take part in sports. She acknowledged the efforts of the police force in maintaining cricket’s momentum and urged the inclusion of women soldiers in cricket to create more balance in the sport.
The Women’s Cricket Premier League final was a thrilling contest, with the Police team defeating Mid-West by two runs. Police scored 126 runs for 7 in 20 overs, while Mid-West replied with 124 runs for 7 in 20 overs. In the third-place match, Correctional Females secured a convincing 9-wicket victory over Crusaders.
Emma Kamara of Police was named Best Fielder of the Tournament, taking six wickets, and also earned the Batter of the Series title, scoring 172 runs in 12 matches. Celina Bull from Correctional Females took home the Bowler of the Tournament award with ten wickets and was also named the Most Valuable Player.
During the event, Coach Alie John Kamara, Western Rural Cricket Development Coordinator, received the prestigious ICC Long Service Award, becoming only the second person in Sierra Leone to receive this global honour.