Visakhapatnam
Nida Dar has managed to hold on to the captaincy of Pakistan for the upcoming Women’s Asia Cup 2024 despite facing a dip in personal form and poor team results. The squad for the tournament, to be held in Dambulla, Sri Lanka from July 19 to July 28, features some notable changes, including the absence of batters Ayesha Zafar and Sadaf Shamas.
The 15-member squad also sees the exclusion of players like Natalia Pervaiz, Rameen Shamim, Umm-e-Hani, and Waheeda Akhtar, while welcoming back four players who have not featured in international cricket in 2024. Among them are batting allrounder Iram Javed, Omaima Sohail, Syeda Aroob Shah, and newcomer Tasmia Rubab, a promising left-arm fast bowler.
The significant changes to the team ahead of the Women’s Asia Cup suggest a potential revamp of the women’s side in Pakistan. The coaching staff for the tournament includes Mohammad Wasim as head coach, assisted by Junaid Khan and Abdur Rehman, albeit on a short-term basis for just the Asia Cup.
The squad announcement followed a training camp in Karachi and another scheduled from July 5 to July 16 in the same city.
Pakistan’s women’s team has struggled in recent times, with only sporadic successes in T20I series against South Africa and New Zealand. A poor showing against West Indies and a winless tour of England exemplify their current form.
In the realm of women’s cricket in Pakistan, promises for a dedicated T20 league have not materialized, despite calls from players and officials. The lack of follow-up after exhibition matches in 2023 indicates a stalling of progress.
Pakistan squad for the Women’s Asia Cup 2024
Nida Dar (capt), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Fatima Sana, Gull Feroza, Iram Javed, Muneeba Ali, Najiha Alvi, Nashra Sandhu, Omaima Sohail, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Syeda Aroob Shah, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan
