With the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 Qualifiers swiftly approaching, anticipation is palpable among players and fans alike. The tournament, slated to run from April 9 to 19 in Lahore, marks a significant chapter in the careers of many female cricketers as they vie for a coveted spot in the prestigious 50-over World Cup set to take place in India later this year. Pakistan’s freshly announced 15-member squad for this crucial event underscores the team’s commitment and strategy to maximize their chances, with a robust mix of experience and new talent ready to shine.
Leading the charge is pace-bowling all-rounder Fatima Sana, who has been entrusted with the captaincy yet again. Fatima has past experience leading the team in six T20Is and two ODIs; her leadership style is known for being both inclusive and motivational. The absence of former captain Nida Dar, who has been left out of the squad after being part of the training camp, signifies a significant shift for the team. At 38 years old, Dar’s recent exclusion from PCB’s central contracts raises questions and reflects an evolving team dynamic. For many long-time supporters of Pakistani women’s cricket, this change serves as a reminder of how quickly circumstances can shift in sports.
Despite these changes, the team has managed to maintain some familiar faces. Aliya Riaz, another player who missed out on a central contract, has retained her position, showcasing her resilience and talent despite the financial setbacks. Meanwhile, Shawaal Zulfiqar’s return from a shoulder injury—sustained during the New Zealand tour in December 2023—adds much-needed depth and flexibility to the bowling lineup. The selection committee’s rigorous evaluation process, which included observing the players’ fitness levels during warm-up matches and intensive training sessions, emphasizes the meticulous planning that is crucial in high-stakes competitions.
Pakistan’s recent ODI series against England in May 2024 has certainly shaped the team’s current lineup. With significant positional changes, the roster is poised for an interesting mix of established players and fresh faces. Notably, Omaima Sohail, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Syeda Aroob Shah, and Sidra Nawaz have been added back to the squad, injecting new energy and a burning desire to reclaim lost glory, while the absence of Nida Dar, Ayesha Zafar, Sadaf Shamas, and Tuba Hassan indicates a clear pivot in the selection strategy.
As they prepare for the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, Pakistan’s strategy seems geared toward a balanced blend of youth and experience, aimed at delivering tangible results. With the tournament structured in a round-robin format, each of the six participating teams—West Indies, Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, and Thailand—will compete for a place in the World Cup. The stakes are high, and only the top two teams from this stage will advance to the main event in India.
The matches will unfold in the heart of Lahore, with the Gaddafi Stadium and LCCA Ground serving as the battlegrounds for this prestigious tournament. Pakistan opens its campaign on April 9 against Ireland, and the team is eager to harness the home advantage and the passionate support of local fans—who are always a massive source of motivation. The fixtures promise thrilling encounters, as each encounter will not only test the players’ skills but also their mental fortitude.
As we gear up for this exciting tournament, it’s crucial to remember that the athletes stepping on the field aren’t just competing for themselves but for the pride of their country and the generations of female cricketers who have paved the way. With Fatima Sana at the helm, fans are hopeful for an inspiring performance that could lead Pakistan back to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. It’s a moment charged with possibilities; may the best team shine on the field as they strive to make their mark in cricket history.
Image Source: fatima sana @ Instagram
