Pakistan’s women’s squad for the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, includes new talents including Anusha Nasir and Shawal Zulfikar, known for their impressive performances in the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup and the Emerging Women’s Teams Asia Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board said in a statement on Tuesday.
Diana Bagg has also returned to international cricket after recovering from a finger injury sustained during the One Day International (ODI) against Australia earlier this year.
Pakistan captain Nida Dar is excited about the upcoming women’s tournament and expressed her pride to be a part of Pakistan Women’s Cricket at the Asian Games, saying: “The Asian Games has seen some extraordinary moments for Pakistan Women’s Cricket, and it is a great honor to be a part of that history.”
Dar added that he is confident in the abilities of his teammates as captains, both experienced and exciting young talent. “Together, we aim to create more unforgettable memories and win a third gold in a row.”
🚨 Here's our 15-player squad for the 19th #AsianGames Hangzhou 2022! 🚨
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) July 25, 2023
Read more: https://t.co/b7jrofscuJ#BackOurGirls pic.twitter.com/F7boao0ebK
The captain spoke about the sense of pride and determination within the team heading into the 19th Asian Games. “We know the competition will be tough, but we are confident in our abilities and team spirit.”
Pakistan’s women’s team, which has won gold medals in the last two editions held in Guangzhou, China in 2010 and Incheon, South Korea in 2014, is aiming for a hat-trick by participating in this year’s event to be held from September 19 to 26. The event will be played in T20 format.
According to the ICC T20I ranking and tournament rules, Pakistan Women’s team will participate in the event from the quarter-finals scheduled from September 22 to 24. The semi-finals will be played on September 25 while the final will be held on September 26. The bronze medal match will also be held on September 26.
Dar, however, was “disappointed” by the absence from the squad of Bisma Maruf, who will not be available to join the team due to Asian Games organizers’ protocol, which prohibits athletes from taking their children. Hence, he opted out of the event.
“As I have known her for years, I understand how much representing Pakistan means to Bisma,” said Draw.
The skipper pointed to his “incredibly talented team and dedicated players” who, he added, are ready to seize the opportunity and perform at their best on the big stage.
Dar said that each of us is determined to perform at our best and uphold the legacy of Pakistan Women’s Cricket at the Asian Games.
The 15-member squad was finalized after deliberations between the women’s selection committee headed by Saleem Jaffer, head coach Mark Coles and captain Nida Dar.
Prior to the Asian Games, Pakistan Women will participate in a home series against South Africa in Karachi from September 1 to 14, comprising three T20Is and three ODIs (part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25).
Ayesha Naseem, who featured in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, expressed her desire to retire from the game, which was accepted by the board.
Commenting on the development, Chief Selector Saleem Jaffer said Pakistan’s squad for the Asian Games represents the future of women’s cricket in the country.
With a mix of budding talent and seasoned adventurers, I expect the players to do well in the event,” he said.
The former cricketer said that the Asian Games provide a unique opportunity for our young players to showcase their talent at the international level.
“We have taken a strategic approach to put together a squad that suits the conditions of the venue where the matches will be held. Each player’s strengths and adaptability to the playing conditions have also been assessed to form a solid squad,” he said.
Tania Malik, head of women’s cricket, said that being a part of the Asian Games is an exciting experience for the team.
“It’s not just about competition; it’s about friendship, sportsmanship, and representing the country with pride,” he said, adding that the players have shown incredible dedication and skill, and “now they have a golden opportunity to make history by winning the coveted title for the third time.”
Malik termed Bisma Maruf’s absence from the tournament as “unfortunate” due to rules and regulations. He then wished Ayesha Naseem all the best for her future after announcing her retirement from cricket due to personal reasons.
“The PCB understands and respects his decision to quit the game due to personal reasons,” Malik added.
Squad: Nida Dar (captain), Alia Riaz, Anusha Nasir, Diana Baig, Fatima Sana, Muniba Ali, Najia Alvi, Nashera Sindhu, Natalia Parvez, Umaima Sohail, Sadaf Shams, Shawal Zulfikar, Sudra Amin, Syeda Aroob Shah and Amit Shah.
