Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced Fatima Sana as the captain of the Pakistan women’s cricket team for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. The 22-year-old pacer will take over the reins from Nida Dar, who has stepped down from the captaincy role.
Fatima Sana takes charge
At just 22 years old, Fatima Sana brings youthful energy and experience to the leadership role. Having already represented Pakistan in 41 ODIs and 40 T20Is, Fatima has proven her mettle on the international stage.
Her leadership credentials were established when she captained Pakistan to a remarkable ODI victory against New Zealand in a Super Over at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval in December 2023. Now, she steps into the shoes of the seasoned all-rounder Nida Dar, who previously led the team across all formats.
Pakistan squad announced for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup
The PCB also announced the 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. The squad includes a mix of experienced players and promising youngsters.
Notable Changes:
- New Captain: Fatima Sana replaces Nida Dar as captain.
- Squad Changes: Sadaf Shamas returns to the squad, while Najiha Alvi has been named as a traveling reserve.
- Uncapped Player: Tasmia Rubab, a left-arm pacer, has earned a place in the squad.
Pakistan Women’s Squad Changes and Selections
The selection committee has kept faith in the core squad that participated in the ACC Women’s Asia Cup last month, with only one change being made. Right-handed batter Sadaf Shamas has been recalled to the squad, replacing wicketkeeper-batter Najiha Alvi, who will travel as a reserve player. Sadaf was part of the squad in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 in South Africa and is expected to strengthen the batting line-up.
Uncapped left-arm pacer Tasmia Rubab is among the 15 players selected, while left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal has been included in the squad, pending her fitness. The team’s mix of experienced players like Aliya Riaz, Muneeba Ali, and Nida Dar, along with emerging talents, provides a balanced and competitive side for the World Cup.
Aiming for Success
Pakistan will be looking to make a strong impression at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. With a talented squad and a capable leader, they have the potential to achieve success in the tournament.
Pakistan squad for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024:
Fatima Sana (captain), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Gull Feroza, Iram Javed, Muneeba Ali (wicket-keeper), Nashra Sundhu, Nida Dar, Omaima Sohail, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal (subject to fitness), Sidra Amin, Syeda Aroob Shah, Tasmia Rubab and Tuba Hassan.
Traveling reserve: Najiha Alvi (wicket-keeper).
Non-traveling reserves: Rameen Shamim and Umm-e-Hani.
As the team prepares for the global stage, all eyes will be on Fatima Sana and her squad to see how they rise to the occasion in the UAE.
