Is This World Cup About Playing Good Cricket and Making the Country Proud? - Fatima Sana

Dubai, Sep 20 (NationPress) Pakistan all-rounder Fatima Sana is poised to lead her squad in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, marking the team's sixth appearance in this prestigious tournament. At just 23 years old, Sana discussed her team's journey and aspirations ahead of the global event.

After regular captain Nida Dar took an indefinite leave from cricket in April 2025, Sana was appointed captain of the T20I team. Although the squad has faced challenges in recent matches, Sana is determined to keep her team united and instilled with confidence as they embark on the tournament.

“World Cups hold a unique significance; they offer every cricketer a chance to showcase their skills on the grandest stage and provide teams the opportunity to demonstrate their growth. For us, representing Pakistan in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup is about playing exceptional cricket, competing fiercely, and bringing pride to our nation,” Sana articulated in her ICC column.

Reflecting on the team’s journey leading up to the World Cup, she noted, “Our path here has been filled with invaluable lessons. The recent qualifiers have boosted our confidence, but we are aware that the World Cup presents an entirely different challenge. Every match will require focus, consistency, and resilience, which is where our preparation and teamwork will be critical.”

In addition to Dar, the team will miss Bismah Maroof, the captain from the 2022 tournament, who retired in April 2024. Nonetheless, the 23-year-old believes they have a well-rounded squad, blending youth and experience.

“Our squad is balanced, featuring seasoned players alongside exciting young talent. Teammates like Sidra Amin, Diana Baig, Nashra Sundhu, Aliya Riaz, and Muneeba Ali have prior World Cup experience that brings calmness and wisdom. Simultaneously, youngsters such as Eyman Fatima, Shawaal Zulfiqar, and Natalia Parvaiz inject fresh energy and skills, enriching our team’s depth,” she elaborated.

All of Pakistan's matches will take place in Sri Lanka, and Sana explored the challenges of competing in subcontinental conditions.

“As a captain and fast bowler, I am eager to tackle the conditions in Sri Lanka. Bowling there necessitates discipline, and as a group of pacers and spinners, our main challenge will be to perform effectively at crucial moments and support one another on the field. On the batting front, we understand that forming partnerships and playing freely will be vital,” she added.

Finally, Sana shared her thoughts on leading the team while emphasizing her focus and that of the squad heading into this significant tournament.

“It is a privilege and a humbling experience to lead Pakistan in an ODI World Cup for the first time. My objective is straightforward: to keep the team united, inspire every player to express their individuality, and tackle each match with confidence, discipline, and teamwork. We respect every opponent we encounter, yet we also trust in the hard work we have invested. I hope our performances bring joy to our supporters and motivate more girls in Pakistan to pursue cricket and aspire to represent their nation one day,” she concluded.

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