Nayma Sheikh, a talented Pakistani-origin cricketer, has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Scottish cricketer ever to receive the prestigious Scotland National Sports Scholarship. This historic achievement makes her the first player, whether male or female, to earn this honor under the Winning Students 100 programme.
The National Sports Scholarship is designed to support elite student-athletes who are working hard to balance their academic studies with their sporting careers. This recognition shows the importance of helping talented individuals pursue both education and sports excellence at the highest level.
Sheikh is currently studying Accountancy and Finance at the University of Glasgow while representing Scotland in international cricket.
She made her international debut in 2023 and has since played for Scotland in both One Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 International (T20I) matches. Her performances on the field have impressed cricket fans and experts alike.
Expressing her happiness about receiving this scholarship, Nayma Sheikh said this recognition would help her develop further in both cricket and her academic pursuits. The financial and institutional support provided by the scholarship will allow her to focus on training, competitions, and studies without additional pressure.
Sheikh’s achievement is particularly inspiring for young cricketers from diverse backgrounds. She has proven that with dedication, hard work, and talent, it is possible to reach the highest levels in sports while maintaining academic excellence.
Her success represents a proud moment for the Pakistani community in Scotland and serves as motivation for aspiring athletes who dream of representing their adopted countries on the international stage.

