ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Qualifier
Pakistan Gears Up for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025
In a significant development, Pakistan has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025. The squad announcement was made on Wednesday, setting the stage for a thrilling tournament set to take place in Lahore from April 9 to 19.
The event holds paramount importance as six teams will battle it out for the final two spots in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, scheduled later this year in India. With Pakistan playing on home soil, expectations are high for a dominant performance.
Fatima Sana Retains Captaincy
Young all-rounder Fatima Sana will continue to lead the national side, following her captaincy stint in last year’s T20 World Cup in the UAE. Sana’s leadership qualities, coupled with her ability to perform under pressure, make her an ideal candidate to guide the team through this critical qualification campaign.
However, the squad announcement came with a notable exclusion. All-rounder Nida Dar, a key figure in Pakistan women’s cricket, has not been included in the final 15-member squad despite being part of the initial 19-player training camp ahead of the tournament. The decision has surprised many, as Dar has been an experienced campaigner in international cricket.
Squad Composition and Key Players
The Pakistan squad features a blend of experienced players and young talent, aiming to strike the perfect balance between stability and aggression. One of the most exciting inclusions is Shawaal Zulfiqar, who returns to the team after recovering from a shoulder injury that kept her out of action since 2023.
Pakistan’s 15-Member Squad:
- Fatima Sana (Captain)
- Najiha Alvi
- Gull Feroza
- Sidra Amin
- Omaima Sohail
- Aliya Riaz
- Diana Baig
- Sadia Iqbal
- Nashra Sundhu
- Muneeba Ali
- Rameen Shamim
- Shawaal Zulfiqar
- Syeda Aroob Shah
- Natalia Parvaiz
- Sidra Nawaz
A Closer Look at the Squad
Pakistan’s squad selection reflects a strategic approach to blending experience with emerging talent. Let’s analyze key players and their expected roles in the upcoming tournament.
Batting Department:
- Sidra Amin & Muneeba Ali – Expected to open the innings, both players bring stability at the top with their ability to build long innings.
- Aliya Riaz & Omaima Sohail – Middle-order anchors with the capability to shift gears as per the match situation.
- Shawaal Zulfiqar – A promising young batter returning after injury, eager to make an impact.
Bowling Department:
- Fatima Sana & Diana Baig – The pace duo will be crucial in providing early breakthroughs.
- Nashra Sundhu & Sadia Iqbal – Key spinners who will play a significant role in middle overs.
- Rameen Shamim & Syeda Aroob Shah – Additional spin options to add variety.
Tournament Format and Pakistan’s Road to India
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 will feature six teams: Pakistan, Ireland, Bangladesh, West Indies, Scotland, and Thailand. These teams will compete in a 15-match tournament, with matches played across two premier venues in Lahore:
- Gaddafi Stadium (newly renovated and the main cricket hub of Pakistan)
- Lahore City Cricket Association (LCCA) Ground
The tournament follows a round-robin format, where each team will play against the others. The top two teams at the end of the round-robin stage will secure direct qualification for the Women’s World Cup in India.
Pakistan’s Opening Fixture:
Pakistan’s journey begins against Ireland, a crucial encounter that will set the tone for their campaign. Given the team’s familiarity with home conditions, Pakistan will be looking to capitalize on their strengths and ensure a strong start.
Strong Contenders in the Tournament
While Pakistan enters the competition as a strong contender, several other teams will pose significant challenges:
- Bangladesh & West Indies: Both teams narrowly missed out on direct qualification via the Women’s Championship (2023-2025). They will be looking to redeem themselves and secure a World Cup berth.
- Ireland: A team that has shown steady improvement and will be eager to grab one of the two qualifying spots.
- Scotland & Thailand: Though ranked lower, these teams have pulled off surprises in the past and cannot be taken lightly.
Key Challenges for Pakistan
Despite the strengths Pakistan possesses, the team will need to overcome a few challenges to succeed in the tournament:
- Lack of Experience in Pressure Situations: The absence of Nida Dar could affect decision-making in crunch moments.
- Inconsistent Batting Performances: Pakistan’s batting lineup has shown inconsistency in past tournaments.
- Fielding Concerns: A common area of concern that needs significant improvement.
Pakistan’s Strengths and Strategies
Pakistan’s chances in the qualifiers look promising, given their strengths in the following areas:
- Experienced Spin Attack: The presence of Nashra Sundhu and Sadia Iqbal provides Pakistan with a solid spin department, which will be crucial on Lahore’s pitches.
- Pace Duo of Fatima Sana & Diana Baig: The fast bowlers will be key in making early breakthroughs.
- Middle-Order Stability: With players like Aliya Riaz and Omaima Sohail, Pakistan possesses batters who can anchor innings effectively.
- Home Advantage: Playing in familiar conditions, in front of home fans, could be a huge morale booster.
Women’s Cricket in Pakistan – A Growing Force
The rise of Pakistan women’s cricket over the years has been commendable. With increasing investment in women’s cricket infrastructure and more opportunities for young talent, the future looks promising.
- Domestic Tournaments Boosting Talent: Initiatives like the Pakistan Women’s League are creating a pipeline for future stars.
- Increased International Exposure: Pakistan’s women’s team has been actively participating in global leagues and series, gaining invaluable experience.
What’s at Stake?
This tournament is a golden opportunity for Pakistan to reclaim its status on the global stage. Qualifying for the Women’s World Cup in India will not only boost the team’s morale but also inspire young girls across the country to pursue cricket as a professional career.
Moreover, with women’s cricket gaining more recognition, a successful qualification campaign can open doors for more international series, sponsorship deals, and development programs for young cricketers.
Final Thoughts
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 is shaping up to be an exhilarating competition, with Pakistan entering as a formidable force. Under the leadership of Fatima Sana and with a mix of seasoned players and young talent, the team looks well-equipped to take on the challenge.
As the tournament draws closer, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s performances in Lahore, as they seek to secure their ticket to the biggest stage in women’s cricket – the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India.
Stay tuned for match updates, player performances, and all the latest news from the tournament!