Fatima Sana to captain Pakistan women's team for ICC T20 World Cup 2024

Fatima Sana has been appointed as the captain of the Pakistan women's cricket team for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place in the United Arab Emirates from 3 to 20 October.

Fatima, who has previously led Pakistan's emerging and domestic teams, captained the national side to a thrilling Super Over victory against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in Christchurch in December 2023. Her leadership in that high-pressure match showcased her potential as a leader on the international stage.

She takes over the captaincy from 37-year-old all-rounder Nida Dar, who had been leading the team across all formats following the tenure of Bismah Maroof.

Nida, a seasoned player with an impressive 112 ODIs and 153 T20Is under her belt, will continue to play a vital role in the squad. The team is placed in Group A alongside formidable opponents Australia, India, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka.

The selection committee has made only one change to the squad that participated in the ACC Women’s Asia Cup in Sri Lanka last month. Right-handed batter Sadaf Shamas, who was also part of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 in South Africa, makes her return to the squad, replacing wicketkeeper-batter Najiha Alvi, who will travel with the team as a reserve player.

The squad retains 10 players from the 2023 edition, ensuring continuity and experience. These players include Aliya Riaz, Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, Nashra Sundhu, Nida Dar, Omaima Sohail, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, and Tuba Hassan.

Notably, uncapped left-arm pacer Tasmia Rubab has been included in 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.

Travelling reserve: Najiha Alvi (wicket-keeper).

Non-traveling reserves: Rameen Shamim and Umm-e-Hani