The Pakistan women’s cricket team observed a moment of silence ahead of their ICC Women’s World Cup fixture in Colombo, following the passing of Shawaal Zulfiqar’s father, Zulfiqar Ahmad, in Sialkot.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the tragic news on October 14, stating that Zulfiqar Ahmad was laid to rest in his hometown’s suburban area.
“Pakistan women’s cricket team batter Shawaal Zulfiqar’s father, Zulfiqar Ahmad, has passed away,” the PCB said in a statement, adding that the board, coaching staff, and players have extended their heartfelt condolences and prayers to the bereaved family.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, the 20-year-old batter has decided to remain with the squad in Sri Lanka as they continue their World Cup campaign. The PCB confirmed her decision, saying she would stay with the team through this difficult period.
Team-mate Syeda Aroob Shah expressed the squad’s collective grief during the pre-match press conference before Pakistan’s clash against England on October 15.
“First of all, I would like to say that our teammate Shawaal Zulfiqar’s father passed away yesterday, and as a team, we express our condolences to her and her family on this irreparable loss. It’s very sad news for us,” said Aroob, speaking with visible emotion.
The Pakistan team, wearing black armbands in tribute, stood together in silence before the match to honour the memory of Shawaal’s late father, a gesture that reflected the unity and compassion within the squad.
This tragic news comes at a challenging time for Pakistan, whose knockout hopes hang by a thread after a heavy defeat to Australia. A brilliant century from Beth Mooney powered the defending champions to a 107-run victory, leaving Pakistan with little margin for error in their remaining fixtures.
Shawaal, who impressed in Pakistan’s warm-up matches in Colombo before the tournament, has yet to feature in the playing XI during the ongoing campaign. Nonetheless, her teammates have rallied around her, emphasizing that the squad stands firmly by her side through this difficult time.
Loves all things female cricket