Respect opponents, but never lose self-belief: Pakistan skipper Sana ahead of WC

Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana is determined to ensure her team respects opponents without losing self-belief at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, starting September 30.

Leading a 15-member squad at just 23, Sana is preparing the team for their sixth World Cup appearance. The young all-rounder emphasised the importance of unity and confidence.

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“Personally, it is an honour and a humbling experience to lead Pakistan in an ODI World Cup for the first time. My aim is simple: to keep the team united, to encourage every player to express themselves, and to approach each game with belief, discipline and team spirit,” Sana wrote in her ICC column.

Sana stressed that Pakistan will not be intimidated by higher-ranked teams and aims to inspire the next generation of cricketers in her country. “We respect every opposition we face, but we also believe in the hard work we’ve put in. My hope is that our performances not only bring joy to our fans but also inspire more girls in Pakistan to pick up a bat or a ball and dream of representing their country one day.”

The team secured their World Cup spot thanks to a flawless performance at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier in April, where they won all their matches at home. “The recent qualifiers gave us confidence,” Sana reflected. “But we also know that the World Cup is a different challenge altogether. Each match will demand focus, consistency, and resilience, and that’s where our preparation and teamwork will matter most.”

This year’s squad features a visibly different look compared to the 2022 edition in New Zealand, with experienced campaigners like Bismah Maroof and Nida Dar missing. Sana, however, believes the team has sufficient experience to handle the challenge, with young talent injecting energy and depth.

“We have a balanced squad with a mix of experienced players and exciting young talent. Teammates like Sidra Amin, Diana Baig, Nashra Sundhu, Aliya Riaz, and Muneeba Ali have already been part of past World Cups and bring calmness and experience.

“At the same time, youngsters like Eyman Fatima, Shawaal Zulfiqar, and Natalia Parvaiz bring fresh energy and skills that add depth to our team.”

Sana, also a fast bowler, highlighted the need for building crucial partnerships in sub-continental conditions. “As captain and a fast bowler, I’m looking forward to the conditions in Sri Lanka. Bowling there requires discipline, and as a group of pacers and spinners, our biggest test will be to strike at key moments and support each other through partnerships in the field.

“On the batting side, we know that building partnerships and playing with freedom will be crucial.”

Pakistan will kick off their World Cup campaign against Bangladesh on October 2 in Colombo.