As the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, the Pakistan and South Africa women’s cricket teams are gearing up for a crucial three-match T20I series at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This series, scheduled to take place from September 16 to 20, 2024, is seen as a pivotal warm-up ahead of the World Cup in the UAE.
Series Overview
South Africa’s women’s team will arrive in Multan on September 13, with matches slated for September 16, 18, and 20. The first two matches will begin at 7 PM local time, ensuring prime-time coverage and maximum exposure for women’s cricket. The final match, scheduled for 10 AM on September 20, will be an early morning fixture, wrapping up the series before both teams depart for the UAE.
This series not only serves as a preparation platform for both teams but also as an opportunity to assess their strengths and weaknesses ahead of the global tournament. The live broadcast of all three matches underscores the significance of women’s cricket in Pakistan and South Africa, as both nations aim to fine-tune their strategies before facing the world’s best in the World Cup.
Pakistan’s Squad and Preparations
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the squad selected for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will participate in this series against South Africa. The squad, led by captain Fatima Sana, includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, all of whom are expected to play key roles in Pakistan’s World Cup campaign.
Pakistan Women’s Squad:
- Fatima Sana (Captain)
- Aliya Riaz
- Diana Baig
- Gull Feroza
- Iram Javed
- Muneeba Ali (Wicket-keeper)
- Nashra Sundhu
- Nida Dar
- Omaima Sohail
- Sadaf Shamas
- Sadia Iqbal (Subject to fitness)
- Sidra Amin
- Syeda Aroob Shah
- Tasmia Rubab
- Tuba Hassan
In addition to the main squad, Najiha Alvi (wicket-keeper, traveling reserve), Rameen Shamim, and Umm-e-Hani (both non-traveling reserves) will be part of the pre-series training camp in Multan. Najiha Alvi will join the squad for the UAE leg of the World Cup.
The Pakistan women’s team will begin their training camp on September 1 at the Multan Cricket Stadium, under the guidance of a skilled coaching and support staff. The team’s preparation includes intensive training sessions focused on refining techniques, improving fitness, and enhancing game strategies.
Coaching and Support Staff:
- Hina Munawar (Manager)
- Muhammad Wasim (Head Coach)
- Junaid Khan (Assistant Coach – Bowling)
- Hanif Malik (Assistant Coach – Fielding)
- Abdur Rehman (Spin Bowling Coach)
- Imran Khalil (Strength and Conditioning Coach)
- Raza Kitchlew (Media and Digital Manager)
- Rabia Siddiq (Physiotherapist)
- Waleed Ahmed (Analyst)
South Africa’s Arrival and Departure
South Africa’s women’s cricket team is scheduled to arrive in Multan on September 13. After competing in the three-match series, they will depart for the UAE on September 21, where they will continue their preparations for the World Cup. Pakistan’s team will follow, leaving for the UAE on September 23.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan’s Path
Pakistan has been placed in Group A of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, alongside some of the strongest teams in women’s cricket—Australia, India, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka. Their campaign begins with warm-up matches against Scotland and Bangladesh on September 28 and 30, respectively.
Pakistan’s World Cup Group Stage Schedule:
- 3 Oct: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, Sharjah
- 6 Oct: Pakistan vs India, Dubai
- 11 Oct: Pakistan vs Australia, Dubai
- 14 Oct: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Dubai
These matches are crucial for Pakistan as they look to advance beyond the group stage and make a significant impact on the global stage. The series against South Africa will provide the team with much-needed match practice and an opportunity to finalize their playing XI for the World Cup.
