In a major development for Pakistan women’s cricket, 22-year-old Fatima Sana has been appointed as the new captain of the national team for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. The young bowling all-rounder takes over the leadership from veteran Nida Dar, who remains a vital part of the squad for the global event. This decision, made unanimously by the Women’s National Selection Committee, marks a new chapter for the Pakistan Women’s cricket team.

Fatima Sana’s rise to captaincy is a testament to her consistent performances and leadership qualities. With 31 T20I wickets to her name at an average of 30.09 and 215 runs at a strike rate just over 100, she has been a key player for Pakistan. Her experience includes leading the Pakistan Emerging and domestic sides, and she also captained the national team to a memorable ODI victory against New Zealand at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch in December 2023.

This leadership change comes as Pakistan gears up for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, where they have been placed in Group A alongside formidable opponents like Australia, India, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka. The team aims to make a strong impact in the tournament, and Fatima Sana’s captaincy is expected to bring fresh energy and strategic thinking to the squad.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made just one alteration to the squad that participated in the recently concluded Women’s Asia Cup. Right-handed batter Sadaf Shamas returns to the squad, replacing wicketkeeper-batter Najiha Alvi, who will now travel to the UAE as a reserve player. Sadaf was previously part of the team during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 in South Africa and will be looking to make her mark on the world stage once again.

The 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 includes a mix of experience and young talent. Alongside the seasoned campaigners like Nida Dar, Aliya Riaz, and Diana Baig, the squad features promising players such as Muneeba Ali, Omaima Sohail, and Tuba Hassan. This blend of youth and experience is expected to be a key factor in Pakistan’s quest for 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
  • Tuba Hassan

Traveling Reserve:

  • Najiha Alvi (wicket-keeper)

Non-traveling Reserves:

  • Rameen Shamim
  • Umm-e-Hani

As Pakistan embarks on its journey in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, all eyes will be on Fatima Sana as she leads the team in this prestigious tournament. With a challenging group and high expectations, her leadership and the team’s performance will be closely watched by cricket fans around the world.

Topics #Fatima Sana #featured #trending pakistan