Pakistan’s women’s cricket team is set to begin its Women’s World Cup campaign with a clash against Bangladesh at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium on October 2. After a strong performance in the qualifiers and with renewed confidence, captain Fatima Sana spoke to the media about the team’s preparation, strategies, and the approach that could set the tone for a successful tournament.
and the importance of their spin attack in subcontinental conditions. “Our preparation is going well, and with the number of spinners we have, we have some of the best in the world. We’ll try to make sure they perform at their best,” she said. Pakistan’s spin unit, led by Nashra Sandhu and Sadia Iqbal, will play a pivotal role in dictating matches and controlling the middle overs.
Acknowledging Pakistan’s mixed history in ICC events, “We have played mostly in the West in the past, but we are focused on the present and ready to perform. The qualifiers gave us confidence, and we aim to carry that momentum forward,” she added.
Fatima credited former captain Bismah Maroof for teaching her composure and discipline under pressure, skills she now applies as a leader. “50-over cricket demands calmness, especially in high-pressure situations. We aim to stay calm and execute our plans, just as we did in the qualifiers,” she said. She also highlighted the importance of support from the coaching staff and teammates, which she says has been crucial in fostering resilience and cohesion within the squad.
Fatima Sana underlined the value of versatile players in modern one-day cricket. “Having all-rounders boosts the team, giving depth in both batting and bowling. Players like Natalia, Omaima, Rameem, and I add balance, and our spinners can contribute with the bat as well. It’s a strong combination,” she explained.
As a seam-bowling all-rounder, Fatima has also worked on variations suited for spin-friendly conditions. “We’ve focused on reverse swing and slower balls in the middle overs. Diana and I have had success with this in the qualifiers, and we plan to continue that approach,” she said.
With a blend of spin, pace, experienced batters, and versatile all-rounders, Pakistan is aiming to make a statement from the very start of the World Cup, with Fatima Sana leading the charge.