Wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali will captain Pakistan in the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026 after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a 14-member squad on October 27. The 10-team tournament will take place in Ajman, United Arab Emirates, from November 12 to 25. Pakistan will make its debut in the competition, with Ayesha Zafar named vice-captain and several familiar players included in the squad.
Why Has Muneeba Ali Got the Captaincy?
Muneeba Ali will lead Pakistan as the team prepares for an important international assignment. Her appointment comes as regular captain Fatima Sana prepares to play her first season in Australia’s Women’s Big Bash League.
Ayesha Zafar will support Muneeba as vice-captain. The PCB has selected a mix of batters, wicketkeeper-batters, spinners and fast bowlers for the tournament. The team will look to make a strong start in its first appearance at the Emerging Nations Trophy.
Pakistan recently won a bronze medal at the Asian Games in Japan. The upcoming competition gives the players another chance to test themselves against teams from different countries.
Which Players Made the Pakistan Squad?
The 14-member squad includes Muneeba Ali, Ayesha Zafar, Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Momina Riasat, Nashra Sundhu, Sadaf Shamas, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani and Waheeda Akhtar.
Gull Feroza is also part of the team after recently being named the best wicketkeeper-batter at the National Women’s T20 Tournament. Her selection adds another option behind the stumps and in the batting order.
Left-arm spinner Nashra Sundhu will lead the spin attack. Momina Riasat, Tuba Hassan and Umm-e-Hani will provide further spin options. Tasmia Rubab and Waheeda Akhtar have been selected as the main pace bowlers.
Twelve players have retained their places from Pakistan’s previous assignment. Sadaf Shamas and Waheeda Akhtar have returned to the squad, giving the team additional options ahead of the tournament.
Who Will Pakistan Face in the Tournament?
Pakistan have been placed in Group B alongside defending champions Thailand, Bangladesh, the Netherlands and Zimbabwe. This group will offer a range of challenges as Pakistan begins its campaign.
Group A features Sri Lanka, Ireland, Scotland, Papua New Guinea and hosts the United Arab Emirates. The tournament will include 30 matches, starting with a round-robin group stage.
The top three teams from each group will advance to the Super Six stage. Each qualifying team will play three matches there, and the two best sides will meet in the final on November 25.
When Will Pakistan Begin Its Preparations?
The Pakistan squad will assemble in Lahore on November 6. A three-day training camp is scheduled from November 7 to 9, after which the team will travel to the UAE for the competition.
Pakistan will hope its preparations help the players settle into their roles before the opening matches. With Muneeba Ali leading a squad that combines returning players and fresh opportunities, the team will aim to make its debut count at the 2026 ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy.
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