Fatima Sana Appointed as the 10th ODI Captain for Pakistan Women’s Team

In a significant development for Pakistan women’s cricket, right-arm fast bowler Fatima Sana is set to lead the national team in the upcoming ODI against New Zealand women at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. This announcement comes as Nida Dar, the regular captain, has been sidelined due to a facial injury sustained during the first ODI against New Zealand.

The series against New Zealand has proven challenging for Pakistan, with multiple injuries affecting the team. Shawaal Zulfiqar and Diana Baig were previously ruled out due to injuries sustained earlier in the tour. Despite these setbacks, under Nida Dar’s leadership, Pakistan managed to achieve a historic T20I series victory against New Zealand, marking a milestone for Asian countries in White Ferns’ backyard.

However, during the first ODI, Nida Dar faced a blow to her face while bowling in the 44th over, forcing her off the field. Subsequent medical evaluation revealed symptoms of concussion, leading to her withdrawal from the upcoming matches. Nida’s availability for the third ODI remains uncertain pending further assessment.

In her absence, 22-year-old Fatima Sana will step into the role of captaincy, becoming the 10th captain for Pakistan’s women’s team in ODI cricket. Fatima, who made her international debut in May 2019, showcased her prowess during the recent T20I series against New Zealand. Her exceptional performance earned her the Player of the Series title, with standout figures in bowling and consistent contributions to the team’s success.

Expressing her honor at leading the team, Fatima conveyed her admiration for Nida Dar’s leadership and extended her wishes for a speedy recovery. She emphasized the team’s eagerness to replicate their T20I success in the upcoming ODI encounters against New Zealand.

Furthermore, an injury update on Diana Baig, initially sidelined due to a finger injury before the series, confirms that she has undergone surgery on her index finger of the bowling arm. The surgery will keep her out of competitive cricket for approximately four weeks.