Aayal QureshiDubai, UAE – The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 begins tomorrow in the UAE, with ten teams battling over 18 days in a highly anticipated tournament. Pakistan’s women’s cricket team, led by captain Fatima Sana, is placed in Group A alongside Australia, India, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka. Group B features Bangladesh, England, Scotland, South Africa, and the West Indies.
Pakistan will kick off their campaign with an exciting opener against Sri Lanka at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on 3 October. The team is set to clash with arch-rivals India on 6 October at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS), followed by an encounter with defending champions Australia on 11 October. Their final group-stage match will be against New Zealand on 14 October, also at DICS.
The tournament format will see the top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for 17 and 18 October. The grand finale is slated for 20 October at DICS, with the first ball expected at 6 PM local time.
Pakistan’s team has shown promising form in their build-up to the tournament, securing wins in warm-up games against Scotland and Bangladesh. Fatima Sana expressed confidence in her team’s preparations, crediting a recent home series against South Africa for helping players get in form and identify key strengths. “The two practice games have also helped us assess the conditions here and provided clarity regarding our combination for the tournament,” she added.
Pakistan’s 15-member squad includes a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, with Fatima Sana leading a unit that features all-rounders like Aliya Riaz and bowlers such as Diana Baig and Nida Dar. Muneeba Ali will serve as the wicket-keeper, while reserves include wicket-keeper Najiha Alvi.
Pakistan’s Fixtures:
- 3 October: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (1900 PKT); Sharjah Cricket Stadium
- 6 October: Pakistan vs India (1500 PKT); Dubai International Cricket Stadium
- 11 October: Pakistan vs Australia (1900 PKT); Dubai International Cricket Stadium
- 14 October: Pakistan vs New Zealand (1900 PKT); Dubai International Cricket Stadium
As the tournament approaches, fans and players alike are eager to witness an exciting competition, with Pakistan looking to make a strong mark on the global stage.
