Introduction
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced the squads for the upcoming ACC Women’s Asia Cup and Women's Asian Games on August 16. Under the leadership of Fatima Sana, the team is set to aim for strong performances in both tournaments.
Tournament Overview
The ACC Women’s Asia Cup is scheduled from August 28 to September 13 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Featuring eight teams competing in a total of 15 matches, the tournament promises exciting contests. Pakistan will be grouped with India, China, and Thailand in Group A.
Group Stage Matches
The highlight of the group stage for Pakistan will be their match against India on September 5. This highly anticipated clash is expected to draw significant attention from fans and analysts alike.
Asian Games Preparation
Simultaneously, the Pakistan Women's team will commence their Asian Games campaign against Thailand. If victorious, they will advance to the quarter-finals scheduled for September 17, potentially facing Sri Lanka or Malaysia on September 20.
Squad Composition
During these tournaments, the PCB has ensured that top-ranked cricketers are available. The squad led by Fatima Sana includes key players like Muneeba Ali Siddiqui, Ayesha Zafar, and Nashra Sundhu. Notably, Aliya Riaz, Tasmia Rubab, and Humna Bilal have been specially selected for the Asian Games.
Coaching and Support Staff
To enhance squad capabilities, former Men’s National Team fast bowler Wahab Riaz has been appointed as head coach and mentor for both events, providing valuable experience to the team.
Squad Lists
| Women’s squad for ACC Women’s Asia Cup |
|---|
| Fatima Sana (captain), Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (wk), Ayesha Zafar, Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Nashra Sundhu, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, Waheeda Akhtar, Najiha Alvi, Sadia Iqbal, Momina Riasat |
| Reserves |
|---|
| Tasmia Rubab, Humna Bilal, Maham Anees, Sadaf Shamas |
| Women’s squad for Asian Games |
|---|
| Fatima Sana (captain), Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (wk), Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Humna Bilal, Nashra Sundhu, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani |
| Reserves |
|---|
| Natalia Parvaiz, Waheeda Akhtar, Sadia Iqbal, Syeda Aroob Shah, Rameen Shamim |
Conclusion
The PCB's strategic selection reflects a balanced mix of experience and emerging talent, aiming for a successful run in both tournaments. With Fatima Sana at the helm, expectations are high for the Pakistan Women’s National Team.