(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Fatima Sana Draws Inspiration from MS Dhoni Ahead of ODI World Cup 2025
Pakistan women’s cricket captain Fatima Sana is set to lead her country for the first time at an ODI World Cup, carrying both excitement and responsibility. The 23-year-old all-rounder admits there is pressure, but she is ready to embrace the challenge—taking cues from none other than Mahendra Singh Dhoni, India’s legendary former captain.
Learning from Dhoni’s Calm Leadership
In an interview with international media, Fatima revealed how Dhoni’s calmness and sharp decision-making inspire her captaincy.
“It is natural to feel nervous in such a big tournament, but I take inspiration from Dhoni,” she said. “I studied his on-field decisions, his ability to back players, and even his interviews. I told myself I wanted to be a captain like him.”
Pakistan Women Eye Historic Semifinal Spot
Pakistan’s women’s team has never advanced past the group stages in any ODI World Cup, securing only three wins across five editions. But Fatima believes this time will be different.
“The jinx will be broken. The young players know how much this means for Pakistan women’s cricket. We are determined to aim for the semifinals,” she added.
Strong Qualifier Performance Boosts Confidence
Her optimism is backed by recent results. Under Fatima’s captaincy, Pakistan remained unbeaten in the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2025, earning their spot in the main event with momentum on their side.
Tough Road Ahead
Pakistan’s campaign begins on October 2 against Bangladesh in Colombo, followed by challenging clashes with cricket powerhouses India, Australia, South Africa, England, and New Zealand. Fatima knows the road will be tough, but she is confident her team has the hunger and belief to make history.
A New Chapter for Pakistan Women’s Cricket
For Fatima Sana, this World Cup is more than just her debut as captain—it’s an opportunity to lead with calmness, resilience, and inspiration drawn from Dhoni, and to create a new chapter in Pakistan’s cricket journey.