Vaibhav Tripathi
Anoosha Nasir and Shawaal Zulfiqar have earned their first call-ups to Pakistan’s senior women’s squad for the Asian Games to be held in Hangzhou, China. Both players have been rewarded for their exceptional performances in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup.
The 15-player squad also includes Diana Baig, who returns to international cricket following a recovery from a finger injury she sustained during the ODI series against Australia earlier this year. However, former captain Bismah Maroof will not be participating in the Asian Games due to the event’s rules and regulations, which do not permit athletes to bring their children along.
Ayesha Naseem, who represented Pakistan in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, has expressed her desire to retire from the game, and the board has accepted her decision.
Chief Selector Saleem Jaffar expressed confidence in the squad, stating, “Our squad for the Asian Games represents the future of women’s cricket in Pakistan. With a mix of emerging talent and seasoned campaigners, I expect the players to perform well in the event. The Asian Games provide a unique platform for our young players to display their talent on an international stage. We have carefully crafted the squad, considering the conditions of the venue where the matches will be held, as well as each player’s strengths and adaptability to ensure a strong team.”
Pakistan Women’s Squad for the Asian Games 2023: Nida Dar (c), Aliya Riaz, Anoosha Nasir, Diana Baig, Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, Najiha Alvi, Nashra Sundhu, Nataliya Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Sadaf Shamas, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Syeda Aroob Shah, Umm-e-Hani.