Pakistan Women Kick Off Busy 2025 Season against Ireland

The Pakistan Women’s cricket team is poised to launch an action-packed 2025 international season, featuring two prestigious white-ball World Cups, with a high-stakes three-match T20I series against Ireland, beginning Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in Dublin. Hosted at the iconic Clontarf Cricket Club, the series—marking the fifth bilateral T20I encounter between the two sides—will see matches unfold on August 6, 8, and 10, with each game starting at 4pm local time (8pm Pakistan time). This series sets the stage for Pakistan’s ambitious campaign ahead, blending seasoned talent with fresh faces as they aim to maintain their unbeaten streak.

A Rivalry Renewed: Pakistan vs. Ireland

Pakistan and Ireland have faced off 19 times in T20I cricket, with Pakistan holding a dominant 15-4 record. The two teams have each claimed victory in two bilateral series since their initial one-off T20I in Dublin in May 2009. Their most recent clash at the ICC T20 World Cup 2023 in Cape Town saw Pakistan triumph by 70 runs, highlighted by Muneeba Ali’s historic feat as the first Pakistan Women’s batter to score a T20I century. This series offers both teams a chance to assert dominance, with Pakistan eyeing a third series win and Ireland looking to upset the odds.

Pakistan’s Preparation and Squad Highlights

The Pakistan squad arrived in Dublin on August 3, 2025, following an intensive 17-day skills camp and a five-day pre-tour camp at the Hanif Muhammad High Performance Centre in Karachi. Led by captain Fatima Sana, the team is brimming with confidence after an unbeaten run at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier in April. Sana expressed optimism, stating, “Our morale is high… All the players have put in a lot of hard work, and everyone is looking forward to give their best.” The squad aims to extend their winning momentum into this series as a critical step toward the upcoming World Cups.

A notable inclusion is 20-year-old uncapped batter Eyman Fatima, whose stellar 287 runs at a strike rate of 155.14 in the National Women’s T20 Tournament earned her a maiden call-up. However, the team faced a setback with Sadaf Shamas sidelined due to a left quadriceps tear, replaced by Shawaal Zulfiqar. World No.1 T20I bowler Sadia Iqbal will be a key figure, aiming to solidify her ranking with standout performances. The full squad includes Fatima Sana (c), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Muneeba Ali, Najiha Alvi (wk), Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tuba Hassan, and Waheeda Akhtar, supported by a robust coaching staff led by head coach Muhammad Wasim.

Ireland’s Formidable Challenge

Ireland enters the series in top form, having swept Zimbabwe Women 3-0 in a T20I series and 2-0 in ODIs during July 2025. Under the leadership of Gaby Lewis, with Orla Prendergast as vice-captain, the Irish squad features a blend of experience and emerging talent, including wicket-keeper Amy Hunter, returning off-spinner Freya Sargent, and debutant Lara McBride. The 14-member team—comprising Gaby Lewis (c), Orla Prendergast, Amy Hunter (wk), Arlene Kelly, Ava Canning, Cara Murray, Christina Coulter Reilly, Freya Sargent, Jane Maguire, Lara McBride, Laura Delany, Leah Paul, Louise Little, and Rebecca Stokell—aims to leverage their home advantage and recent success to challenge Pakistan.

Fans can anticipate a thrilling contest, with Pakistan’s batting firepower, led by Muneeba Ali’s century-making prowess, clashing against Ireland’s revitalized bowling attack. Sadia Iqbal’s spin mastery will be tested by Ireland’s resilient top order, while Eyman Fatima’s debut could signal a new era for Pakistan cricket. The series also serves as a vital tune-up for Pakistan’s ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and T20 World Cup campaigns, making every match a critical showcase of skill and strategy.

Series Schedule and Viewing Details

  • 6 Aug – First T20I at Clontarf Cricket Club, Dublin
  • 8 Aug – Second T20I at Clontarf Cricket Club, Dublin
  • 10 Aug – Third T20I at Clontarf Cricket Club, Dublin

All matches begin at 4pm local time (8pm Pakistan time), promising edge-of-the-seat action for cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Live updates and scores will be available through official cricket channels, ensuring fans stay connected to every moment.

As Pakistan Women gear up to face Ireland in Dublin, this T20I series is more than just a bilateral showdown—it’s a launchpad for a year of global cricket dominance. With an unbeaten streak to defend and new talent to unveil, Pakistan aims to set a commanding tone. Ireland, riding a wave of recent victories, will fight to reclaim their standing. Cricket fans should mark their calendars for August 6–10, 2025, as these matches promise to ignite the season with fierce competition and unforgettable performances.