Pakistani women cricketers are gearing up with high spirits and confidence as they prepare for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from October 3. With fitness camps and intense training sessions behind them, players have expressed optimism about their readiness for the highly anticipated tournament.
Players such as Touba Hasan, Najiha Alvi, and Tasmia Rabab have spoken positively about the team’s preparations, particularly emphasizing the impact of the fitness camp in Lahore. According to Touba Hasan, the camp helped the team adjust to the conditions they will face in the UAE, drawing comparisons between the climates of Multan and Dubai. “We gained significantly from the Lahore fitness camp. Our group is challenging, but we’re confident in our abilities to perform well in the World Cup,” said Touba.
Wicketkeeper Najiha Alvi shared a similar view, highlighting that the transition to Dubai’s conditions should be smooth. “Preparations are going smoothly, and I’ve learned valuable skills in wicket-keeping. The conditions are quite similar to what we experienced in Multan, so we feel well-prepared,” she remarked.
Tasmia Rabab, who was recently invited to the national team camp, also voiced confidence in the team’s readiness. “We’ve faced stiff competition before, but our preparations have us well-equipped to take on the best teams,” she said, expressing a strong belief in Pakistan’s chances at the tournament.
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 is the ninth edition of the tournament, and it promises to be an exciting one, with a total of 150 of the world’s top players participating. Ten teams will compete in 23 matches across two iconic cricket venues: the Sharjah Cricket Stadium and Dubai International Stadium. These venues, with their contrasting characteristics, will provide a unique challenge for the competing teams.
Pakistan has been drawn into Group A, which features a tough pool of competitors. Their opening game, set to be a thrilling clash against Sri Lanka, is a rematch of the recent Asia Cup semi-final, where Sri Lanka came out on top. New Zealand, currently ranked third in the world, adds another layer of difficulty to the group, making Pakistan’s road to the semi-finals a formidable one.
Meanwhile, Group B will see South Africa looking to challenge the top teams, with their key matchup against England scheduled for October 7. Only the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, set for October 17 and 18 in Dubai and Sharjah.
The tournament will culminate in a grand final on October 20 at Dubai International Stadium, where two of the world’s best teams will face off in what promises to be an unmissable match.
With Pakistan’s women cricketers showing determination and optimism, fans will be eagerly watching as the team strives for success in this prestigious global tournament.