Injury Forces Pakistan Into Late T20 Squad Change Ahead of Ireland Tour

Injury Forces Pakistan Into Late T20 Squad Change Ahead of Ireland Tour

Pakistan’s preparations for their upcoming women’s T20I series in Ireland have hit an early hurdle, as key batter Sadaf Shamas has been ruled out of the tour due to injury. The setback has forced team management to make a last-minute change to the Pakistan women’s T20I squad, just days ahead of the opening match in Belfast.

Sadaf Shamas Ruled Out Due to Injury

Sadaf, a reliable top-order batter, sustained a torn left quadriceps muscle during a practice session in Karachi. According to official medical reports released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the muscle tear was confirmed through scans, and she will now undergo a rehabilitation process that will keep her out of the three-match T20I series entirely.

Her absence is a significant blow to Pakistan’s batting strategy. The team was banking on her experience and consistency at the top of the order, especially given the competitive nature of this bilateral series against Ireland Women.

Shawaal Zulfiqar Named Replacement

Stepping in for Sadaf is Shawaal Zulfiqar, a talented 18-year-old batter who had recently recovered from a shoulder injury. Although she was not part of the initial touring squad, Shawaal had been actively participating in the skills camp held in Karachi earlier this year.

She is now set to fly to Ireland on August 3 to join the squad just in time for the first T20I match scheduled on August 6. This will mark her return to international T20 cricket after her last appearance in December 2023.

Shawaal had also featured in the Women’s ODI World Cup Qualifier in Lahore earlier this year, where she impressed with her sharp technique and composure under pressure. Her inclusion now offers both a challenge and an opportunity — a chance to re-establish herself in the national setup at a crucial time.

Fatima Sana to Lead the Squad

The rest of the Pakistan women’s squad for the Ireland T20I series remains unchanged. Fatima Sana, the energetic all-rounder, will captain the side as they look to open their 2025 cricket season on a positive note.

With the series offering crucial preparation time ahead of global ICC events, the team will be eager to test combinations, build squad depth, and foster synergy between young talent and experienced campaigners.

Pakistan Women’s Revised T20I Squad for Ireland Tour:

• Fatima Sana (captain)

• Aliya Riaz

• Diana Baig

• Eyman Fatima

• Gull Feroza

• Muneeba Ali (wk.)

• Najiha Alvi (wk.)

• Nashra Sandhu

• Natalia Parvaiz

• Rameen Shamim

• Shawaal Zulfiqar (replacement for Sadaf Shamas)

• Sadia Iqbal

• Sidra Amin

• Tuba Hassan

• Waheeda Akhtar

The selectors have expressed confidence in Shawaal’s abilities and believe she can slot into the top order seamlessly. Though her return is last-minute, her prior experience at the international level is seen as a positive sign.

Significance of the Series

This three-match women’s T20I series in Ireland isn’t just another tour; it’s part of a broader effort by the PCB to give its women cricketers consistent international exposure. The series also offers a great chance for the coaching staff to evaluate performance ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup qualifiers and other upcoming bilateral events.

Moreover, tours like these help bridge the gap between domestic and international performance levels, giving newer players like Shawaal the platform to perform under pressure.

Challenges for Pakistan

Despite having a relatively experienced core, Pakistan women’s cricket team has struggled with consistency in overseas conditions. Playing in Irish conditions, especially during the cooler August weather, could pose challenges for batters and bowlers alike.

The late change in the squad could also impact team morale and pre-set game strategies. However, the management seems confident in its backup players and believes the squad has enough depth to absorb the setback.

Pakistan vs Ireland Women’s T20I Series Schedule (2025):

• 1st T20I: August 6, Belfast

• 2nd T20I: August 8, Belfast

• 3rd T20I: August 10, Belfast

All matches will be played at the same venue to help players adapt quickly to conditions.

Player to Watch: Shawaal Zulfiqar

Shawaal’s return to the Pakistan women’s T20I squad is being closely watched by analysts and fans alike. Her technique and maturity beyond her years make her one of the brightest young prospects in the women’s cricket circuit.

With her recent match practice in domestic and qualifier events, she is expected to slot into the top three and provide the much-needed firepower at the top of the order.