Lahore: In a historic development for Pakistan women’s cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a 15-member national squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2. For the very first time, young all-rounder Fatima Sana will lead the national women’s team in an ODI World Cup.

Fatima Sana: A New Chapter in Leadership

Fatima Sana, who has been an integral part of Pakistan’s bowling attack in recent years, now takes over the reins of the team in what is considered the most prestigious tournament of women’s cricket. Her elevation to the captaincy reflects PCB’s faith in her ability to lead a relatively young squad on the international stage.

At just 22 years of age, Fatima’s journey from domestic cricket to international recognition has been remarkable. She has consistently impressed with her seam bowling, lower-order batting contributions, and fighting spirit. Analysts believe her appointment as captain is a strategic move to build a new leadership core for Pakistan women’s cricket, keeping in view the future.

Tournament Schedule

The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 will take place in two host countries—India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan’s matches, however, will all be staged in Sri Lanka, where conditions are expected to suit the team’s bowling attack.

Before the World Cup, the Pakistan women’s team will also play three One-Day Internationals against South Africa, providing crucial preparation for the mega event.

Debutants in the Squad

The squad includes six players who will be making their debut World Cup appearance:

• Natalia Parvaiz
• Ramin Shamim
• Sadaf Shamas
• Sadia Iqbal
• Shawaal Zulfiqar
• Syeda Aroob Shah

Their inclusion reflects the selectors’ intention to inject fresh talent into the team, combining experienced campaigners with promising newcomers.

Key Omissions

Two players from the World Cup Qualifiers squad, Gull Feroza and Najeeha Alvi, have been left out of the final 15. Both will remain part of the non-traveling reserves, which also include Tooba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, and Waheeda Akhtar.

Complete 15-Member Squad

1. Fatima Sana (Captain)
2. Muneeba Ali Siddiqui
3. Aliya Riaz
4. Diana Baig
5. Eman Fatima
6. Nashra Sandhu
7. Natalia Parvaiz
8. Omaima Sohail
9. Ramin Shamim
10. Sadaf Shamas
11. Sadia Iqbal
12. Shawaal Zulfiqar
13. Sidra Ameen
14. Sidra Nawaz
15. Syeda Aroob Shah

Non-Traveling Reserves

• Gull Feroza
• Najeeha Alvi
• Tooba Hassan
• Umm-e-Hani
• Waheeda Akhtar

Players’ Reactions and Hopes

Fatima Sana, in her first comments after being named captain, expressed pride and determination:

“It is a huge honor for me to lead Pakistan in a World Cup. We have a young but talented squad, and we are determined to give our best performance. Playing in Sri Lanka gives us some advantage as conditions are familiar, and we will look to capitalize on that.”

Veteran players like Aliya Riaz and Diana Baig are expected to provide stability with their experience, while young stars such as Shawaal Zulfiqar and Syeda Aroob Shah will be eager to showcase their skills on the global stage.

Significance for Pakistan Women’s Cricket

This World Cup marks a crucial moment in the development of Pakistan women’s cricket. While the team has often struggled to break into the top tier of international women’s cricket, recent improvements in domestic structures, central contracts, and exposure tours have helped raise the standard.

By appointing Fatima Sana as captain, the PCB signals a generational shift in leadership, aiming to groom players who can take the team forward for the next decade.

Conclusion

With the announcement of the 15-member squad, excitement is building for Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup. The blend of experienced players and first-time World Cup participants, under the leadership of Fatima Sana, presents both a challenge and an opportunity.

The road ahead will not be easy, but with determination, teamwork, and preparation, the Pakistan women’s team has a chance to make history and improve its global standing. Fans across the country will be watching eagerly, hoping the Women in Green rise to the occasion in Sri Lanka.