Abtaha Maqsood, the first woman to wear a hijab while taking part in The Hundred, returned to CBeebies this February to read a bedtime story.
The Scotland cricketer co-designed the custom hijabs for Birmingham Phoenix, the team she plays for in The Hundred.
From Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Abtaha reads ‘Under My Hijab’ by Hena Khan and illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel, told from the point of view of a young girl observing the women in her life and how each covers her hair a different way.
The story, read to mark World Hijab Day on Thursday 1st February, aired on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer.
Abtaha says: “I really loved reading ‘Under My Hijab’ on CBeebies Bedtime Stories.
“I hope it helps open up conversations and gives families a better understanding and appreciation of the hijab.
“Wearing a hijab while playing cricket is not just about expressing my religious identity but it’s also a symbol of inclusion and empowerment for girls in sports.
“Sport should be a space where every woman and girl feels not only accepted but also celebrated for who she is. By embracing our authentic selves on the pitch, we send a powerful message that cricket is a sport for everyone.”
This is the second time Abtaha has appeared on CBeebies Bedtime Story, having appeared on the much-loved show last July.
