Pakistan Names 15-Member Squad for ICC Women’s CWC

The Pakistan Women’s World Cup squad has been announced with a blend of experience and youth. Fatima Sana will lead the team for the first time in an ODI World Cup, while 20-year-old uncapped batter Eyman Fatima has earned her maiden call-up. The selection reflects Pakistan’s strategy to combine proven performers with rising stars ahead of the mega event in India and Sri Lanka.

Fatima Sana Takes Charge

Fast-bowling all-rounder Fatima Sana will captain Pakistan in the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup. The 23-year-old had previously led the side in the qualifying tournament earlier this year, where Pakistan remained unbeaten and booked their place in the World Cup. Now, she takes charge on the biggest stage, with the responsibility of guiding a squad that features several fresh faces.

Sana’s leadership comes at a crucial time. She carries the dual role of spearheading Pakistan’s pace attack while shaping a balanced unit that can challenge the world’s best sides.

Eyman Fatima Among Young Guns

The announcement included the exciting selection of right-handed batter Eyman Fatima. At just 20, she made her T20I debut against Ireland and now gets a chance to shine in ODIs. Her aggressive stroke play has impressed selectors, who see her as a long-term prospect for Pakistan cricket.

She joins fellow youngsters Shawaal Zulfiqar and Syeda Aroob Shah, both of whom have represented Pakistan at the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in 2023. Their promotion to the senior squad highlights the PCB’s investment in nurturing emerging talent.

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Debutants Set for the Big Stage

As many as six players will feature in their first ODI World Cup. Natalia Parvaiz, Rameen Shamim, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, and Syeda Aroob Shah all earned their spots after consistent performances in international and domestic cricket.

Their inclusion provides Pakistan with depth across departments. Sadia Iqbal strengthens the spin attack, while Sadaf Shamas adds batting firepower. Natalia Parvaiz and Rameen Shamim bring utility roles, offering flexibility in the middle overs.

Changes From the Qualifier Squad

The selectors made two changes from the squad that played in the Women’s World Cup Qualifier. Batter Eyman Fatima and all-rounder Sadaf Shamas replaced Gull Feroza and Najiha Alvi. Both excluded players have been placed in the non-traveling reserves along with Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, and Waheeda Akhtar.

This approach ensures backup options are available if injuries or form issues arise before or during the tournament.

Pre-Tournament Camp in Lahore

The squad will gather in Lahore for a two-week camp starting 29 August. Under head coach Muhammad Wasim, the players will undergo intense training, including 50-over practice matches. The coaching staff, featuring specialists in batting, bowling, fielding, and fitness, will fine-tune preparations ahead of the South Africa series.

The camp serves as both a testing ground and a bonding exercise before the squad travels for the World Cup.

South Africa Series Before the World Cup

As part of the build-up, Pakistan will host South Africa for a three-match ODI series at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, from 16 to 22 September. The series provides vital match practice and a chance to finalize playing combinations. South Africa’s arrival in Lahore on 12 September will mark the beginning of Pakistan’s final phase of preparation.

Pakistan’s World Cup Fixtures

Pakistan will play all their group matches at R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo. The campaign begins on 2 October against Bangladesh. Key clashes include a high-profile match against India on 5 October and tough contests against Australia, England, and New Zealand.

Group matches end with fixtures against South Africa and Sri Lanka. If Pakistan qualifies, the semifinal on 29 October and the final on 2 November will also be staged in Colombo.

Full Squad

Fatima Sana (captain), Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (vice-captain), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Rameen Shamim, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz (wicketkeeper), and Syeda Aroob Shah.

Non-traveling reserves: Gull Feroza, Najiha Alvi, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, and Waheeda Akhtar.

Building Toward a New Era

This squad symbolizes a fresh chapter for Pakistan women’s cricket. With experienced names like Muneeba Ali, Diana Baig, and Sidra Amin balancing out rising stars like Eyman Fatima and Shawaal Zulfiqar, the team carries both stability and innovation.

The selection committee has shown confidence in youth while retaining seasoned players who have carried Pakistan through past tournaments. As the World Cup draws closer, fans hope the blend of energy and experience will propel Pakistan to historic success.