The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 begins today, October 3, in the UAE, with Pakistan, led by captain Fatima Sana, taking on Sri Lanka in their opening match at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
The tournament, featuring ten teams, is divided into two groups. Pakistan is placed in Group ‘A’ alongside Australia, India, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka. Group ‘B’ consists of Bangladesh, England, Scotland, South Africa, and the West Indies.
Captain Fatima Sana expressed confidence in her team’s preparation, stating that their recent series against South Africa and practice games in the UAE have provided valuable insights into the players’ strengths and conditions.
Pakistan’s key matches include facing arch-rival India on October 6 and defending champions Australia on October 11 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Their final group match will be against New Zealand on October 14.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals on October 17 and 18, with the final set for October 20.
Pakistan’s 15-member squad:
- Fatima Sana (captain)
- Aliya Riaz
- Diana Baig
- Gull Feroza
- Iram Javed
- Muneeba Ali (wicketkeeper)
- Nashra Sundhu
- Nida Dar
- Omaima Sohail
- Sadaf Shamas
- Sadia Iqbal
- Sidra Amin
- Syeda Aroob Shah
- Tasmia Rubab
- Tuba Hassan
Traveling reserve: Najiha Alvi (wicketkeeper)
Non-traveling reserves: Rameen Shamim and Umm-e-Hani