Fatima Sana wishes to see more Pakistani women in cricket

Pakistan women's cricket team captain hopes crowds support both men's, women's cricket equally

Pakistan women's cricket team Captain Fatima Sana called for greater opportunities for the country's female cricketers in overseas leagues, as well as equal support for men's and women's cricket, saying international exposure could help develop the game at home.

In an interview, Sana reflected on her experience playing in Australia's Women's Big Bash League (WBBL), where she represents the Perth Scorchers alongside some of the biggest names in international cricket, including New Zealand all-rounder Sophie Devine.

Describing the opportunity as a valuable experience, Sana said playing in a competitive environment with an experienced squad had contributed to her development as a cricketer. “It is a pleasure to play and get the opportunity for this, especially with the kind of team we have,” she said.

Sana particularly highlighted Devine's influence, saying it contributed to her personal growth. “Playing with her is like playing with a world-class player. Her performances are great and seeing that as a youngster makes you want to learn,” she said.

The captain added that she would welcome more Pakistani women cricketers joining the WBBL, describing overseas opportunities as an important way to strengthen the country's women's cricket structure. “However more Pakistanis play will be an honour. It is my wish that women from Pakistan come here and play and women's cricket grows in the ICC,” she said.

Beyond personal experience, Sana also stressed the importance of creating an environment in which more girls felt encouraged to take up cricket.

She said she believed that the visibility of women's cricket, particularly through major international competitions, could help change perceptions among families and encourage greater female participation. “When people see girls playing in the cup, it will convince their parents to send more children into the game,” Sana said.

She also expressed hope that women's cricket would eventually receive the same recognition and support as men's cricket. “I hope that one day a time comes where men and women's cricket becomes equal. Playing sports matters regardless of being a man or woman. I hope the crowd continues to support both in the matter,” she said.

Born in Karachi, Sana began her cricket journey playing with her brothers before progressing through domestic cricket and earning a place on the national team.

She made her international debut against South Africa in 2019 and established herself as a pace-bowling all-rounder, earning the ICC Women's Emerging Cricketer of the Year award in 2021. In August 2024, she was appointed captain of the national women's team ahead of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, becoming one of the youngest players to lead the country at the global tournament.

Sana signed with the Perth Scorchers for the 2026-27 WBBL season, making her debut against the Melbourne Renegades. She made an immediate impact, taking two wickets for 27 runs in four overs as the Scorchers secured a nine-wicket victory. 

The captain's participation in the WBBL is significant as she is only the second Pakistani woman to feature in the Australian franchise competition, following former captain Nida Dar, who represented Sydney Thunder in 2019.