Fatima Sana steps up as Pakistan's captain for Women's T20 World Cup

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named fast bowler Fatima Sana as the captain of Pakistan's 15-member squad for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, which kicks off in the UAE this October. Fatima takes over the leadership role from allrounder Nida Dar, marking her first stint as captain in T20 Internationals and at any ICC event.

At just 22 years old, Fatima has already proven her capabilities, having led the national team twice in One Day Internationals (ODIs), including a memorable Super Over victory against New Zealand at Hagley Oval. In that match, she stepped in for the concussed Dar, showcasing her leadership potential and cricketing skill.

Pakistan squad sees minimal changes, cncapped players included

Aside from the captaincy shift, the Pakistan Women's team remains largely unchanged from their recent tour of Sri Lanka for the Women’s T20 Asia Cup. The only modification in the squad is the inclusion of batter Sadaf Shamas, who replaces wicketkeeper-batter Najiha Alvi. Shamas was also a part of the team during the Women’s T20 World Cup 2023.

Ten players from the previous T20 World Cup squad have retained their spots in the 15-member team, including key players like Aliya Riaz, Muneeba Ali, Nashra Sandhu, Omaima Sohail, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Tuba Hassan, and Shamas, along with Dar and Fatima. However, left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal's selection is subject to her fitness, and uncapped left-arm seamer Tasmia Rubab has also earned a spot in the squad.

Despite being left out of the main squad, Najiha Alvi will travel as a reserve player, while Rameen Shamim and Umm-e-Hani have been named as non-travelling reserves for the tournament.

Pakistan prepares for Group A challenge in UAE

The Women's T20 World Cup begins on October 3 in the UAE after being moved from Bangladesh just last week. Pakistan will face a tough Group A, which includes powerhouse teams such as Australia, India, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka. While the revised schedule is yet to be released, the team, led by Fatima Sana, is gearing up for a challenging campaign ahead.

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