Pakistan women’s cricket captain, Fatima Sana, has called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to ensure better playing conditions and weather planning for future tournaments after her side endured a frustrating, rain-marred campaign at the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup in Sri Lanka.
All seven of Pakistan’s matches were scheduled in Sri Lanka, where constant rain ensured only four games were completed. Fatima Sana’s team bowed out of the tournament without a win as a result, collecting just three points.
The persistent downpours not only robbed Pakistan of potential victories but also disrupted their rhythm throughout the event. Their closest opportunity for only a fourth World Cup win came against England, when the team was cruising at 34 for no loss while chasing a revised 113-run target, before rain returned to force another no result.
Speaking after the final match, which was also washed out, Fatima Sana expressed disappointment over the weather’s role in Pakistan’s early exit, urging the ICC to take proactive measures in future tournaments.
“The weather did not go in our favour in the England match and others as well,” Fatima Sana said. “The ICC must arrange venues with good conditions because we wait four years for a World Cup. It’s disheartening when matches keep getting washed out.”
The 23-year-old skipper added that Pakistan’s limited international exposure also contributed to their struggles, emphasizing the need for consistent playing opportunities ahead of next year’s Women’s T20 World Cup.
“We haven’t played much international cricket recently. Hopefully, we’ll get more matches and better preparation for the next big event,” she said.
Despite the disappointing campaign, Fatima Sana remained optimistic about Pakistan’s future, expressing hope that the side would return stronger at the next major tournament.
“We’re in a learning phase,” she concluded. “Hopefully, the next time we step on the field, we’ll be a much more complete and confident team.”
While Fatima Sana and her team could not overturn the historic shortfalls for Pakistan at this year’s Women’s ODI World Cup, the future looks secure under her leadership. With changes in the administrative staff expected, and a domestic overhaul in the works, Pakistan could find itself challenging the more accomplished sides sooner rather than later.