Pakistan women's squad announced for Asian Games

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled the women’s squad for the upcoming Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. The tournament, scheduled from September 19 to 26, will be played in the T20 format.

Impressive performances in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup and Emerging Women’s Teams Asia Cup have earned Anoosha Nasir and Shawaal Zulfiqar their maiden call-ups to the 15-player squad. Diana Baig, who has recovered from a finger injury, has also made the cut.

However, former captain Bismah Maroof will be absent from the Asian Games due to event regulations that don’t permit athletes to bring their children along.

Having claimed the gold medals in the last two editions of the Asian Games (in Guangzhou, China in 2010 and Incheon, South Korea in 2014), the Pakistan women’s team is aiming for a hat-trick of victories.

As per the ICC T20I rankings and tournament regulations, Pakistan will enter the event from the quarter-finals, scheduled from September 22 to 24. The semi-finals will follow on September 25, with the final and the match for the bronze medal set to take place on September 26.

Captain Nida Dar expressed her confidence in her teammates, emphasizing the pride and determination within the squad. Despite the absence of Bismah Maroof, the team is ready to showcase their skills and team spirit in the competition.

The squad comprises talented players, both experienced and young, who are eager to make their mark on the big stage and continue Pakistan women’s cricket’s legacy in the Asian Games.