With the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup approaching, Pakistan’s women’s cricket team aims to leverage a blend of experience and youth to compete strongly, despite facing potential challenges that could be exposed by opponents as the tournament advances.
Strengths
Muneeba Ali – The bulwark of Pakistan
In the T20 format, starting strong is crucial, and having Muneeba Ali in the side can uplift Pakistan’s chances. Her approach allows her to take on bowlers early, potentially giving her team a fine start. Muneeba’s shot-making, especially in the powerplay, is vital for a top-order batter. In recent T20s, we’ve seen teams dominate the opposition in the first 8-10 overs, and Muneeba has the potential to do just that. If she fires early, it can set the tone for Pakistan, putting the opposition on the back foot from the start.
Fatima Sana- The X-factor
Fatima has demonstrated solid leadership qualities recently, which can greatly benefit Pakistan. Known for staying calm under pressure, she can play the big shots. Her presence is especially valuable in pressure-filled moments, as she can steer the team through difficult stages. Fatima is also a fine medium pacer.
Nida Dar and Nashra Sandhu – Spin potential on slow wickets
Both spinners will be crucial in conditions that favor them. Nida Dar and Nashra Sandhu have been match-winners for Pakistan, and their ability to generate consistent turn could pose challenges for the opposing batters. Nashra’s excellent control allows her to place the ball precisely, often deceiving even top-order batters. Similarly, Nida’s experience and guile make her a key weapon. How these two operate in tandem will be important for Pakistan’s success as the tournament advances.
Aliya Riaz – Potential X-factor for Pakistan
Riaz has the potential to be the X-factor for Pakistan this World Cup with the batting abilities she possesses. She has not lived up to her potential as of yet but this World Cup might change everything for her if she can get going.
Weaknesses
Inconsistency
Inconsistency has been Pakistan’s downfall and it has cost them in crucial moments. While there have been flashes where they’ve looked like a top-tier side, they’ve struggled to maintain that form. In a high-stakes tournament like the World Cup, there are no second chances. To compete at the highest level and make it to the pinnacle stages, Pakistan will need to turn winning into a habit, consistently delivering strong performances across all matches.
Pacers not getting breakthroughs at regular intervals
Any T20 team relies on its pacers to be in top form, and for Pakistan, their current pace attack has struggled to find consistency, which could hamper their chances in the tournament. With several teams boasting strong top-order batters, the risk for Pakistan lies in not being able to break partnerships at crucial moments, allowing the opposition to take control of the game. Pakistan’s pacers will need to significantly elevate their performances to bring balance to the team and enhance their chances of success.
Sidra Amin – Weaklink the batting line up
Sidra, batting at number three, carries a crucial responsibility, but she has often struggled to maximise her potential in this key position. Her inability to capitalise on scoring opportunities when needed has added pressure on Pakistan’s batting line-up. To truly provide the boost that her team requires, Sidra will need to work on improving her strike rate and expanding her range of shots.
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