PCB appointed Fatima Sana as captain of women cricket team for the upcoming ICC Women T20 World Cup 2024. The Women T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates from October 3 to October 20, 2024.
Fatima Sana, who has previously led Pakistan’s emerging and domestic teams, showcased her leadership potential during a thrilling Super Over victory against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in December 2023. Her stellar performance in that high-pressure match demonstrated her capability on the international stage.
She succeeds Nida Dar, the 37-year-old all-rounder who had been leading the team across all formats following Bismah Maroof’s tenure. Nida Dar, with an impressive record of 112 ODIs and 153 T20Is, will continue to play a crucial role in the squad. Pakistan is placed in Group A alongside formidable teams like Australia, India, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka.
The selection committee has made one change to the squad from the ACC Women’s Asia Cup held in Sri Lanka last month. Right-handed batter Sadaf Shamas, who was part of the ICC Women T20 World Cup 2023 in South Africa, returns to the squad, replacing wicketkeeper-batter Najiha Alvi, who will travel as a reserve player.
The squad retains 10 players from the 2023 edition, ensuring continuity and experience, including Aliya Riaz, Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, Nashra Sundhu, Nida Dar, Omaima Sohail, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, and Tuba Hassan.
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Notably, uncapped left-arm pacer Tasmia Rubab joins the final 15, adding fresh talent to the line-up. Additionally, left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal has been selected, pending fitness clearance.
Squad: 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.
