Ahead of the highly anticipated ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan’s star all-rounder, Fatima Sana, has expressed confidence in her team’s aggressive new approach. Speaking about Pakistan’s preparation for the tournament, Sana highlighted the team’s improved batting prowess and their aim to play “fearless cricket” from the very first ball.
Pakistan’s recent performances have turned heads, most notably their record-breaking 181-run total against 2023 T20 World Cup finalists, South Africa, which they defended successfully in Multan. The victory exemplified Pakistan’s aggressive intent, a key aspect of their evolving strategy in T20 cricket.
A Shift in Pakistan’s Batting Approach
Sana, writing in a column for the ICC Media Zone, emphasized the team’s determination to maintain their aggressive mindset during the World Cup. In the past, Pakistan’s batting unit had struggled in the Powerplay, often losing early wickets and failing to capitalize on key moments. However, Sana believes the team has now learned the importance of attacking intent, especially in the first six overs, to set the tone for competitive totals.
“We are aiming to bring a different and more fearless approach to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup this year,” Sana wrote. “We’ve learned the value of positive intent, especially during the Powerplay. Teams that make the most of the first six overs are the ones that post big scores and chase high totals.”
This shift has already paid dividends, with several young players showcasing potential, and the team consistently posting higher totals than in previous years. Sana, who has been instrumental in Pakistan’s middle order, stressed the importance of maintaining this momentum throughout the World Cup.
Key Players and Strengths
Sana was also quick to praise the contributions of top-order batters Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali, who have both been in good form. Feroza impressed with her strong performances in the Asia Cup, while Muneeba’s recent success against South Africa has further strengthened Pakistan’s lineup. The two players, according to Sana, bring valuable experience and have been encouraged to maintain strike rates above 100 to keep Pakistan competitive.
In the middle order, Pakistan relies on the experience of players like Nida Dar, Sidra Amin, and Aliya Riaz. Nida Dar, in particular, has been a key figure, with her leadership and bowling skills making her one of the top wicket-takers in T20 history.
With the ball, Pakistan’s attack boasts a balanced mix of spin and seam options. Sana highlighted the contributions of spin bowlers Sadia Iqbal and Nashra Sundhu, both of whom are ranked among the top 10 in ICC’s T20 bowling rankings. The fast-bowling lineup, anchored by the experienced Diana Baig, also features rising talents like left-arm seamer Tasmia Rubab, adding further depth to the squad.
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The Road to the Knockouts
Despite Pakistan’s struggles in past T20 World Cup campaigns, Sana is optimistic about her team’s chances of making it to the knockout stages. Recent series wins against New Zealand and India have boosted Pakistan’s confidence, and Sana believes the team has the ability to compete with the best.
“This exciting mix of youth and experience has me really looking forward to seeing how it all comes together for Pakistan,” she remarked. “We know we have a tough group, including reigning champions Australia, but we’ve shown that we can beat top sides, and that gives us a lot of confidence.”
Sana also emphasized the importance of fan support, recalling the enthusiastic crowds in Multan during the South Africa series. She hopes that the support from fans back home will inspire Pakistan to push through the challenges of the World Cup.
“We aim to win as many as possible and see where that takes us. Playing against top teams brings out the best in us, and we’ll be giving our all to make the nation proud.”
As Pakistan prepares to take on some of the world’s best teams in the UAE, Fatima Sana and her teammates are determined to make a mark in the T20 World Cup with their fearless brand of cricket.
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