Eight members of the SCC Divas -a Hong-Kong based women's cricket team consisting entirely of Filipino players, most of whom are in the country as domestic helpers- have been selected to represent the Philippine's national Women's side in a T20I series starting later this week! This news comes shortly after team founder and manager Animesh Kulkarni received an award from the Philippines Cricket Association in recognition of his support towards the development of Philippine Women's Cricket.

Pictured from left to right: Annie Zamora, Ma Luz Mandia, Christine Joy Lovino, Romela Osabel, Josie Arimas, Animesh Kulkarni, Catherine Bagaiosan, Shela Descar, Jennifer Alumbro and Jonna Eguid
Not pictured: Cherry Octaviano and Rosaly Pagarigan

The unique story of the SCC Divas has captured plenty of media attention around the world in the past, being covered by the likes of Sun Web Magazine, South China Morning Post, Time Magazine and Hindustan Times. Formed in 2017, this team has since swelled in numbers, with over 30 players now registered. The side has experienced success on the field as well, having emerged champions in the CHK Women's Development League for two seasons in a row.

This recent news is yet another achievement for the side, with Josie Arimas, Jennifer Alumbro, Cherry Octivano, Catherine Bagaoisin, Christine Joy Lovino, Jonna Eguid, Romela Osabel and Ma Luz Mandia all having been selected to represent the first-ever Philippine's Women's side later this month, with a ninth player (Rosaly Pagarigan) being named as a reserve. The squad announcement can be found on the PCA's Facebook Page.

The players are not the only ones receiving recognition for their efforts. Last month the PCA presented the Diva's founder and manager Animesh Kulkarni and award in recognition of his support towards the development of Philippine Women's Cricket. The squad have also received coaching from former HK cricketer Najeeb Amar, and mentoring from ICC-qualified umpire P. Chandrasekhar.

The Philippines Women's Team will play a 4-match T20I series against Indonesia Women on 21st and 22nd December at the Friendship Oval of Emilio Aguinaldo College-Cavite in Dasmariñas City.