(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)

Pakistan Women’s T20I Squad Faces Last-Minute Change Ahead of Ireland Series

Pakistan’s women’s cricket team has suffered a late setback in their preparations for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland, with a key squad change announced just days before departure.

🚨 Sadaf Shamas Ruled Out Due to Injury

Top-order batter Sadaf Shamas has been ruled out of the series after sustaining a torn left quadriceps during a training session in Karachi.

🏥 Medical scans confirmed the muscle tear, requiring rehabilitation.
❌ She will miss the entire tour of Ireland.

🏏 Shawaal Zulfiqar Named as Replacement

In her place, 18-year-old Shawaal Zulfiqar has been called up to the 15-member squad.

✅ Shawaal was part of the recent skills camp in Karachi.
🏆 She last played in December 2023 and also featured in the ODI World Cup Qualifier earlier this year.

Shawaal will join the team in Ireland on August 3, just in time for the first T20I on August 6 in Belfast.

📋 Updated Pakistan Squad for Ireland T20I Series

Fatima Sana (captain)
Aliya Riaz
Diana Baig
Eyman Fatima
Gull Feroza
Muneeba Ali (wk)
Najiha Alvi (wk)
Nashra Sandhu
Natalia Parvaiz
Rameen Shamim
Shawaal Zulfiqar
Sadia Iqbal
Sidra Amin
Tuba Hassan
Waheeda Akhtar

🔍 What This Means for Pakistan

The injury to Sadaf Shamas is a blow to Pakistan’s batting line-up, especially given her expected role at the top of the order.
However, Shawaal’s inclusion gives selectors a chance to test emerging talent ahead of future global competitions.

Led by Fatima Sana, the squad remains largely unchanged as Pakistan aims to start their international season on a strong note.

📅 Ireland vs Pakistan T20I Series – Quick Look

📍 Location: Belfast, Ireland
📆 Dates: First T20I on August 6, 2025
🎯 Significance: Key preparation ahead of global tournaments; opportunity to blend youth with experience

🌟 A New Chance for a Rising Star

Shawaal Zulfiqar’s return marks a fresh opportunity after recovering from a shoulder injury earlier this year.
Fans and selectors alike will be watching closely as she seeks to make her mark on the international stage once again.

📢 Stay connected for match previews, squad updates, and live coverage as Pakistan Women take on Ireland in this exciting three-match T20I series.