(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Women Aim for Strong Start Against Ireland in T20I Series Opener
DUBLIN: The Pakistan women’s cricket team is set to begin their international campaign with a crucial three-match T20I series against Ireland, starting Wednesday at the Clontarf Cricket Club Ground. With two major white-ball World Cups on the horizon, the series offers a key opportunity to gain momentum.
This marks the fifth bilateral T20I series between the two sides. While both teams have won two series each, Pakistan holds a commanding record overall, with 15 wins in 19 matches since their first clash in 2009.
Extensive Preparation Ahead of Series
The visiting team arrives in Ireland following a focused training period, which included a 17-day skills camp and a 5-day pre-tour camp at the Hanif Mohammad High Performance Centre in Karachi.
Speaking ahead of the series, captain Fatima Sana expressed confidence in her side’s preparation and determination.
“We had a great build-up to this tour,” said Fatima. “We are familiar with the conditions here and have specific plans to execute. Ireland is a strong side and we respect all their players.”
Pakistan last faced Ireland at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023, where Muneeba Ali made history with Pakistan’s first-ever T20I century, leading to a 70-run victory.
Young Talent and New Additions
The squad features several experienced players along with 20-year-old uncapped batter Eyman Fatima, who will be looking to make her mark. Shawaal Zulfiqar comes in as a replacement for the injured Sadaf Shamas.
The bowling unit will be led by Sadia Iqbal, currently ranked among the world’s top T20I bowlers, along with Nashra Sandhu. Pakistan will rely on its spin strength, while pacers are expected to provide crucial support.
“Sadia and Nashra are our bowling anchors,” said Fatima. “Our pace attack has been stepping up as well — we’re confident in all departments.”
Ireland in Form
Hosts Ireland are riding high after recent success, having swept both the T20I and ODI series against Zimbabwe women at home. They will be aiming to carry that form into this contest.
All matches in the T20I series are scheduled to begin at 4:00 PM local time, with the second and third games set for August 8 and 10.
Pakistan Squad:
Fatima Sana (captain), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Muneeba Ali, Najiha Alvi (wk), Nashra Sandhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tuba Hassan, Waheeda Akhtar.
