Pakistan are set for their sixth ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup appearance, and this time, a new leader will be guiding them. At just 23, dynamic all-rounder Fatima Sana has been entrusted with captaining a youthful yet determined 15-member squad, as the team looks to make a mark on the global stage.
For Sana, the opportunity to lead Pakistan on such a platform is more than just a personal achievement. It is a responsibility she intends to carry with unity and belief, “Personally, it is an honour and a humbling experience to lead Pakistan in an ODI World Cup for the first time. My aim is simple: to keep the team united, to encourage every player to express themselves, and to approach each game with belief, discipline and team spirit,” she said.
Pakistan will face several higher-ranked opponents in the tournament, but Sana insists her team will not be overawed. Instead, she wants their performances to spark a wider change, “We respect every opposition we face, but we also believe in the hard work we’ve put in. My hope is that our performances not only bring joy to our fans but also inspire more girls in Pakistan to pick up a bat or a ball and dream of representing their country one day.”
Pakistan first entered the Women’s ODI World Cup in 1997, and though results have been scarce—they have managed just three wins in five editions—the journey has been one of persistence and gradual growth. Their most recent victory came against West Indies in 2022.
The team booked their ticket to this year’s tournament in style, going unbeaten in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 held at home in April. The flawless campaign highlighted their consistency and hunger, cementing their place at the main event.
This World Cup marks a significant shift in Pakistan’s setup. Veteran figures such as Bismah Maroof and Nida Dar are absent, leaving the leadership mantle firmly on younger shoulders.
Yet, Sana is confident the balance of youth and experience will strengthen their challenge, “Teammates like Sidra Amin, Diana Baig, Nashra Sundhu, Aliya Riaz, and Muneeba Ali have already been part of past World Cups and bring calmness and experience. At the same time, youngsters like Eyman Fatima, Shawaal Zulfiqar, and Natalia Parvaiz bring fresh energy and skills that add depth to our team.”
As part of their build-up, Pakistan recently played South Africa at home. Despite losing the three-match ODI series, the team finished on a high by winning the third game, a timely boost as they prepare for the global tournament.
Pakistan’s campaign begins on October 2, when they face Bangladesh in Colombo. For Sana and her team, it will be an opportunity to showcase belief, discipline, and resilience, while carrying the hopes of millions back home.
(Quotes sourced from ICC media release)
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