Pakistan has officially announced its women’s squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s Qualifier, set to be held in Lahore. The selection committee finalized the team after evaluating player fitness and form during the second phase of the preparatory camp, which included warm-up matches and practice sessions.
Fatima Sana to Lead Pakistan in ICC Women’s Qualifier
Young all-rounder Fatima Sana, who has already led Pakistan in six T20Is and two ODIs, has been entrusted with captaincy for the tournament. Muniba Ali has been named vice-captain, strengthening the leadership core of the squad.
A key highlight of the selection is the return of Shawal Zulfiqar, who was sidelined due to a shoulder injury sustained during Pakistan’s New Zealand tour in December 2023. Now back in action, Shawal brings stability and experience to the national team.
Pakistan’s Squad for ICC Women’s Qualifier
The final squad includes a mix of experienced players and promising young talent, aiming to secure a spot in the Women’s Cricket World Cup.
Squad List:
- Fatima Sana (Captain)
- Muniba Ali (Vice-Captain)
- Alia Riaz
- Diana Baig
- Gul Feroza
- Najiya Alvi (Wicketkeeper)
- Nashra Sindhu
- Natalia Pervez
- Umaima Sohail
- Ramin Shamim
- Sadia Iqbal
- Shawal Zulfiqar
- Sidra Amin
- Sidra Nawaz (Wicketkeeper)
- Syeda Ghulam Fatima
Reserve Players:
- Waheeda Akhtar
- Um Hani
Player Support Staff:
A well-structured support staff has been assigned to assist the team in its preparation and performance throughout the tournament.
- Hina Munawar (Manager)
- Muhammad Wasim (Head Coach)
- Junaid Khan (Assistant Coach – Bowling)
- Abdul Rehman (Assistant Coach – Spin Bowling)
- Abdul Saad (Assistant Coach – Fielding)
- Waleed Ahmed (Analyst)
- Muhammad Rafiullah (Media Manager)
- Muhammad Ramzan (Strength & Conditioning Coach)
- Tehreem Sumbal Shah (Physiotherapist)
- Kiran Shahzadi (Ms.)
Tournament Format and Venue Details
The six-team ICC Women’s Qualifier will feature a single-league round-robin format, with teams competing for a World Cup spot. Participating teams include:
- Pakistan (Host Nation)
- Bangladesh
- Ireland
- Scotland
- Thailand
- West Indies
A total of 15 matches will be played across two venues in Lahore:
- Gaddafi Stadium
- LCCA Ground
The tournament will open with an exciting Pakistan vs. Ireland clash at Gaddafi Stadium. Fans are eagerly anticipating Pakistan’s performance, as they aim to dominate on home soil.
Pakistan’s Road to Qualification
Pakistan’s women’s team has been steadily gaining momentum in international cricket, with improved performances and strong leadership under Fatima Sana. The return of Shawal Zulfiqar and the presence of experienced players like Sidra Amin and Diana Baig provide a solid foundation for a successful campaign.
Pakistan’s strategy will likely revolve around:
Strong all-round performances from Fatima Sana and Alia Riaz
Pace attack dominance with Diana Baig leading the bowling lineup
Spin department efficiency, with Nashra Sindhu and Sadia Iqbal playing key roles
Reliable wicketkeeping duo in Najiya Alvi and Sidra Nawaz
Can Pakistan Secure a Spot in the Women’s World Cup?
With home advantage, a balanced squad, and a well-structured coaching team, Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team has a strong chance of making a mark in this qualifier tournament. Their opening match against Ireland will set the tone for the rest of their campaign.
Cricket fans across Pakistan are excited to see their team in action, as they push towards a World Cup berth. Stay tuned for all the latest updates on Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team’s journey in the ICC Women’s Qualifier!
