Pakistan women’s cricket team captain Fatima Sana has received permission from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to miss the T20 International leg of the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka in order to participate in The Hundred 2026 for Birmingham Phoenix.
The PCB has approved the all-rounder’s request, allowing her to fulfill her commitments in one of England’s premier franchise cricket tournaments while remaining available for Pakistan’s One Day International (ODI) fixtures.
Fatima Sana will continue to lead Pakistan during the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, which is scheduled to be played in Hambantota on July 23, 25, and 28. The series carries added significance as it forms part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2025–27, where teams compete for qualification and valuable championship points.
Her temporary absence from the T20I series provides an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their abilities on the international stage. At the same time, her participation in The Hundred is expected to enhance her experience by competing alongside some of the world’s leading cricketers.
The Hundred has become one of the most prominent franchise tournaments in women’s cricket, attracting international stars and offering players exposure to high-quality competition. Representing Birmingham Phoenix will allow Fatima Sana to further develop her skills in a competitive environment before returning to national duties.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has increasingly supported players seeking opportunities in overseas franchise leagues, recognizing the role such tournaments play in improving individual performance and strengthening the national team’s overall standard.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s focus during the ODI series will be on securing crucial points in the ICC Women’s Championship. Strong performances against Sri Lanka could prove important in the team’s campaign for qualification to future global tournaments.
Cricket fans will be watching closely as Fatima Sana balances franchise and international commitments, with expectations high for her return to Pakistan’s ODI squad following her stint in The Hundred.
The decision reflects the growing importance of women’s franchise cricket while ensuring Pakistan retains one of its key performers for a crucial ICC Women’s Championship series.
