The first women's cricket series between Pakistan and India will begin in Lahore [Images] on Wednesday with only families allowed to watch because of cultural restrictions in the country.

Unaccompanied male spectators will be barred from entering the venues for the four one-day matches, the secretary of the Pakistan Women's Cricket Association (PWCA) said.

"We have to keep in mind our cultural values and give no reason for anyone to discourage women's cricket," Shamsha Hashmi said on Monday.

While tussles between Pakistan and India in men's cricket enjoy a huge following in the sub-continent, Hashmi hopes the women's matches will also capture the public's imagination.

"We see cricket as a channel for women's empowerment and development in Pakistan. Those playing the game now are becoming aware of their basic rights," she said.

"There is immense interest in cricket among the girls and we have already held a national championship this year.

"Girls from even the conservative areas of the country are now playing cricket."

Women's sporting events in Pakistan have been on the rise even though religious, social and cultural taboos have made it difficult for women to take part in competitive action.

Last week, the first national women's football championship was launched in the capital, Islamabad. Unaccompanied male supporters were not allowed into the stadiums and players wore baggy trousers and shirts.

The PWCA is also planning to host the Asia Cup tournament in December. India and Sri Lanka [Images] have confirmed their participation.