Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finally revealed the women’s squad for Asian Games 2023. Like India, the two-time Asian Games gold medallists in cricket will have a full-strength squad. While Nida Dar will lead the side, the biggest absence is of ex-captain Bismah Maroof. The batter withdrew from the event as she would not be able to carry her child to Hangzhou Asiad.
Among other names, Diana Baig is back after recovering from a finger injury. Left-arm spinner Anoosha Nasir has got a call-up after an impressive performance in the recently concluded Women’s Emerging Asia Cup. Shawaal Zulfiqar too has been picked for the continental tournament that is making a comeback since 2014.
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Like India, Pakistan-Women too will begin their campaign in Quarterfinals based on ICC rankings. Pakistan will have to wait to find out their opposition and will play their first game on September 22 or 24.
India and Pakistan can meet in the final on September 26 if both teams win their semifinal clashes on September 25.
The losing semifinalists will clash in the bronze medal match on September 26 as well. All matches will be played at the Zhejiang University of Technology Pingfeng Cricket Field.
However, unlike the last two editions, Pakistan will find it difficult. Pakistan bagged gold medals in 2010 and 2014 with BCCI refusing to send any team.
But this time, Harmanpreet Kaur will lead India in the Asian Games with BCCI having agreed to send the teams.
Pakistan Women Squad for Asian Games 2023:
Nida Dar (capt), Aliya Riaz, Anoosha Nasir, Diana Baig, Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, Najiha Alvi, Nashra Sandhu, Nataliya Parveiz, Omaima Sohail, Sadaf Shamas, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Ameen, Syeda Aroob Shah, Umm-e-Hani
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