The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a 25-player squad for the preparatory camp ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. The camp, set to commence on August 7, will see the country’s top women cricketers undergo rigorous training and fitness sessions in preparation for the global event.
The squad comprises a balanced mix of nine batters, eight bowlers, six all-rounders, and two wicketkeepers, reflecting a comprehensive approach to team preparation. The all-rounders include Aliya Riaz, Fatima Sana, Nida Dar, Rameen Shamim, Syeda Aroob Shah, and Tuba Hassan. The batters are Ayesha Zafar, Dua Majid, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Iram Javed, Omaima Sohail, Sadaf Shamas, Sidra Amin, and Yusra Amir. The fast bowlers are Diana Baig, Neha Sharmin Nadeem, Tasmia Rubab, Waheeda Akhtar, and Zaib-un-Nisa Niaz. The spinners include Nashra Sundhu, Sadia Iqbal, and Umm-e-Hani, while the wicketkeepers are Muneeba Ali and Najiha Alvi.
The camp will run from August 7 to August 18, focusing initially on fitness and medical assessments. These sessions will include medical screenings, fitness drills, and fielding exercises to ensure the players are in peak physical condition. From August 19 until the end of the camp, the focus will shift to skills sessions, including net practice under the guidance of the national coaching staff.
Pakistan’s women’s team recently showcased their potential in the Women’s Asia Cup 2024, advancing to the semi-finals before narrowly losing to Sri Lanka by three wickets. This performance has set a positive tone as they head into the T20 World Cup preparations.
Pakistan is placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup and will face a challenging lineup of opponents. Their fixtures include matches against arch-rivals India on October 6, defending champions Australia on October 8, Sri Lanka on October 11, and New Zealand on October 13. The top two teams from the group will advance to the semi-finals, making each match crucial for Pakistan’s progression in the tournament.