India and Pakistan recently locked horns in a much-anticipated encounter at the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. In a thrilling low-scoring game, India emerged victorious by 6 wickets, securing a crucial win against their arch-ri?v??als.

The viral drop and Aliya Riaz’s reaction

The match featured a memorable and amusing incident that quickly spread across social media. During Pakistan’s innings, Indian fielder Asha Sobhana dropped a simple catch, sparking a humorous reaction from Pakistan’s Aliya Riaz, who was seated in the dressing room.

The moment unfolded after the Powerplay in the first innings when Pakistan opener Muneeba Ali, on 14, attempted to play a scoop-flick over fine leg for a boundary. She mistimed the shot, resulting in a straightforward catch opportunity for Sobhana. However, much to everyone’s s??urprise, Sobhana missed the catch.

The camera immediately cut to Aliya in the dressing room, who burst into laughter and placed her hands on her face, unable to believe that Sobhana had dropped such an easy chance. The clip of this incident soon went viral?, bringing a lighter moment to the tension-filled match.

Here is the video:

pic.twitter.com/bs4G2C3LBh

— The Game Changer (@TheGame_26) October 6, 2024

Also READ: Twitter Reactions: India ?edge past Pakistan to register first win in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

India hold nerve to win a thriller

Fortunately for Sobhana and Team India, the missed chance did not prove costly, as Shreyanka Patil later dismissed Muneeba for 17 off 26 balls. India’s bowling unit showcased an impressive display, restricting Pakistan to a modest total of 105/8 in their allotted 20 overs.

Arundhati Reddy was the standout performer with the ball, picking up 3 wickets for just 19 runs in her 4 overs. Shreyanka Patil also shone, tak??ing 2 wickets while conceding only 12 runs.

During the chase, India faced a few challenges but managed to pull through, thanks to key contributions from Shefali Verma (32), Harmanpreet Kaur (29 retired hurt), and Jemimah Rodrigues (23). The Indian team ultimately?? overpowered Pakistan, successfully chasing down the target and sealing a well-deserved victory.

Also WATCH: Richa Ghosh takes ??a sublime one-handed catch to? dismiss Fatima Sana in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will mark the ninth edition of this prestigious tournament, where 10 top teams from around the globe will battle for glory from October 3 to October 20 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Divided into two groups, the teams will compete i?n a round-robin group stage, with the top two from each group advancing? to the semi-finals, culminating in a grand final on October 20.

Pakistan’s struggles and aspirations

Historically, the Pakistan women’s team ??has struggled in this competition. Despite participating in all eight previous editions, they are yet to reach the semi-finals. Their record stands at eight wins in 32 games, a statistic that highligh?ts their challenges at the highest level of women’s T20 cricket. However, under new leadership, Pakistan will be determined to break this pattern and make an impact in the 2024 edition.

Group A challenges: Facing the best in the world

Placed in Group A, Pakistan faces an uphill battle against some of the world’s most formidable teams. The group includes India, New Zealand, and defending champions Australia, making Pakistan’s path to the knockout stages highly competitive. Rounding out the group is Sri Lanka, against whom Pakistan will kick off their campaign on October 3 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Their second match, one of the tournament’s most anticipated clashes, will be against arch-rivals India on October 6 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS).

Pakistan will continue their group stage fixtures with a tough match against Australia on October 11 and conclude the group stage with a game against New Zealand on October 14, both at the DICS. Each match will be crucial, with Pakistan hoping to secure enough wins to advance to the semi-finals for the first t??ime in their history.

Also READ: Kat??e Cross, Tammy Beaumont predict the ?winner of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Leadership transition and key players

This year’s campaign will be led by 22-year-old Fatima Sana, who was appointed as the captain by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Her leadership, combined with her all-rounder skills, will be vital for Pakistan’s hopes of turning the tide in the competition. The squad is a balanced mix of youth and experience, with players like Nida Dar and Bismah Maroof providing a steady presence in the middle order, while emerging talents like Muneeba Ali and Ayesha Naseem offer explosive potential.

Pakistan’s top-choice XI for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024:

1. Muneeba Ali – Opening Batter

• Role: Left-handed opener.
• Strength: Aggressive batting with a strong ability to accelerate in the powerplay.
• UAE Impact: Muneeba’s shot-making will be essential in exploiting fielding restrictions on UAE’s slower pitches.

2. Sidra Amin – Opening Batter

• Role: Reliable top-order batter.
• Strength: Known for her consistency and ability to build innings.
• UAE Impact: Sidra’s steady approach will help balance the aggressive play of Muneeba, allowing Pakistan to build a solid foundation.

3. Nida Dar – All-rounder

• Role: Middle-order batter, off-spinner.
• Strength: One of the most experienced T20 players, capable of contributing with both bat and ball.
• UAE Impact: Her off-spin will be crucial in controlling the middle overs on UAE’s turning tracks, while her batting can steady the ship under pressure.

4. Aliya Riaz – All-rounder

• Role: Hard-hitting middle-order batter, medium-pacer.
• Strength: Powerful striker of the ball, handy with the ball in hand.
• UAE Impact: Riaz’s big-hitting ability will be important in the death overs, and her medium pace can be effective in UAE’s slower conditions.

5. Iram Javed – Middle-order Batter

• Role: Power hitter.
• Strength: Capable of accelerating the scoring rate during the middle and death overs.
• UAE Impact: Iram’s ability to hit big in the later stages will be vital for finishing strong on low-scoring UAE surfaces.

6. Fatima Sana (Captain) – All-rounder

• Role: Medium-fast bowler, lower-order batter.
• Strength: Leader with reliable pace bowling and useful lower-order hitting.
• UAE Impact: Fatima’s swing bowling will be key to making early breakthroughs, while her batting can provide crucial runs in pressure situations.

7. Omaima Sohail – All-rounder

• Role: Middle-order batter, part-time bowler.
• Strength: Handy with both bat and ball, flexible in roles.
• UAE Impact: Omaima’s contributions with bat and ball will be essential in ensuring balance, particularly as a second spin option in turning conditions.

8. Sadia Iqbal – Left-arm Spinner

• Role: Left-arm orthodox spinner.
• Strength: Economical and wicket-taking option in the middle overs.
• UAE Impact: Sadia’s left-arm spin will be crucial on UAE’s slow, spin-friendly pitches, where she can choke the opposition’s scoring rate.

9. Nashra Sandhu – Left-arm Spinner

• Role: Left-arm spinner.
• Strength: Consistent wicket-taker, strong in middle overs.
• UAE Impact: Sundhu’s ability to turn the ball will be vital in the middle overs to break partnerships and take advantage of spin-friendly conditions.

10. Diana Baig – Fast Bowler

• Role: Right-arm fast bowler.
• Strength: Capable of generating pace and swing with the new ball.
• UAE Impact: Baig’s ability to extract movement early on UAE pitches can create early breakthroughs and put pressure on the opposition.

11. Tuba Hassan – Leg-spinner

• Role: Leg-spin bowler.
• Strength: A promising leg-spinner, skilled at taking wickets in crucial moments.
• UAE Impact: Tuba’s leg-spin will be vital in exploiting the turning conditions in the UAE, offering Pakistan a reliable wicket-taking option in the middle overs.

Also READ: Jess Jonassen picks her favourite team for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2??024; also reveals four semi-finalists

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will bring together the top 10 women’s cricket nations from around the globe, competing for the prestigious trophy from October 3 to 20. With 23 matches scheduled across two iconic venues, Dubai and Sharjah, the ninth edition promises high-octane action, with each team battling for supremacy. The tournament features 10 teams, split into two groups, each vying fo??r a semi-final berth. The top two teams from each group will advance, making every group-stage match critical.

Qualified teams & title contenders

Australia, who enter the tournament as the defending champions, have been a formidable force in the format. Now led by Alyssa Healy after Meg Lanning’s retirement, they will be aiming for a seventh title. South Africa, last year’s finalists, are another strong contender, while England, the 2009 champions??, are hungry for a second?? title.

India, under Harmanpreet Kaur, will be looking to improve after their semi-final exit in 2023, while former champions West Indies and two-time finalists New Zealand are also in the mix, having qualified by finishing third in their groups last year. The Sri Lanka and Scotland teams completed the list of participants by qualifying through the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier earlier this year.

Pakistan’s journey so far in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Pakistan finds themselves in Group A, a challenging pool that includes Australia, India, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka. Historically, Pakistan has struggled with consistency in this format, but they will look to rectify that and deliver stronger performances in this year’s World Cup. Pakistan’s performance in the Women’s T20 World Cup has seen a series of early exits over the years.

In 2009 (England), they were eliminated in the first round (R1), struggling to find their rhythm. The trend continued in 2010 (West Indies), 2012 (Sri Lanka), and 2014 (Bangladesh), where they faced early group-stage exits (R1) in each tournament. Despite some promising moments, they couldn’t break through in 2016 (India) and 2018 (West Indies), again falling short in the group stages (R1). The pattern repeated in 2020 (Australia) and 2023 (South Africa), with Pakistan exiting in the first round (R1) once more. Looking ahead to 2024 (England), Pakistan will aim to improve and ??break t?heir cycle of early departures.

Also READ: 5 England players to watch??? out for in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in UAE

Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: 5 Pakistan players to watch out for

1. Muneeba Ali

Muneeba Al??i is expected to be a key player in Pakistan’s campaign. She has shown flashes of brilliance in her ability to dominate the powerplay, providing crucial starts for her team. Muneeba’s aggressive approach in the first few overs could give Pakistan the upper hand in settin??g competitive totals.

In 73 T20I matches, she has scored 1261 runs at an average of 19.40, including 2 half-centuries and one century. Muneeba’s capability to set a solid foundation in the powerplay can significantly influence the team’s performance. Previous World Cup Performance (2023): In the T20 World Cup 2023, Muneeba scored 122 runs in 4 matches at an average of 30.34, showcasing her potential in high-pressure situations but needing to convert starts into bigger scores??.

2. Fatima Sana

Fatima has emerged as a leader for Pakistan, providing balance to the side with her calmness under pressure and ability to p??erform in critical moments. She can be pivotal with both bat and ball, especially in the death overs, where her ability to hit big shots and bowl yorkers is valuable.

Having played 43 T20I matches, she has scored 316 runs and taken 31 wickets, with a best bowling figure of 3/18. Fatima’s ability to perform under pressure makes her a crucial asset, particularly in tight situations. Previous World Cup Performance (2023): In her World Cup debut, Fatima took 4 wickets across 4 matches with?? an impressive economy rate, along ??with scoring valuable runs at critical moments.

3. Nida Dar

Nida Dar is one of Pakistan’s most experienced players, known for her excellent all-round capabilities as a spinner and a lower-order batter. In 156 T20I matches, she has scored 2,021 runs at an average of 17.88 and taken 143 wickets at an economy of 5.70. Nida’s experience and tactical skills ar??e essential for controlling the middle ov??ers.

Previous World Cup Performance (2023): Nida was pivotal in the 2023 edition, taking 5 wickets in 4 matches and contributing valuable runs when the? team needed it the most.

4. Nashra Sandhu

Nashra Sandhu is a leading spinner for Pakistan, known for her exceptional control and ability to deceive batters. In 62 T20I matches, she has taken 60 wickets at an economy rate of 5.46. Nashra’s skill in maintaining pressure on opposing teams during the middle overs will be crucial for Pakistan’s bowling strategy.

Previous World Cup Performance (2023): In the 2023 T20 World Cup, Nashra took 7 wickets in 4 matches, showcasing her potential as a game-changing ??bowler ?in the group stages.

5. Aliya Riaz

Aliya Riaz has shown glimpses of her potential but has yet to fully deliver o?n the big stage. This World Cup presents her with the perfect opportunity to step up as a match-winner. Her ability to clear boundaries and add crucial runs in the middle order could be?? a game-changer for Pakistan.er

She has played 95 T20I matches, accumulating 1,112 runs at an average of 21.38. Although she has yet to fully realize her potential, her ability to accelerate the scoring in the latter stages of the innings could be pivotal for Pakistan. Previous World Cup Performance (2023): Aliya participated in the 2023 T20 World Cup, where she contributed with less runs than expected with total of 37 in 4 games but will be looking to elevate her performance in the upcoming tourna?ment.

Also READ: Pakistan announces squad for ??the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, names new captain

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Pakistan Women bounced back strongly to level the three-match T20I series against South Africa Women with a 13-run victory in the second T20I on Wednesday?? (September 18). This match was crucial for both sides, with South Africa having won the first T20I and looking ??to secure the series with a win.

Pakistan Women’s innings

Opting to bat first after losing the toss, Pakistan Women faced an early setback as opener Gull Feroza was dismissed for just 10 runs from 11 balls. However, Muneeba Ali anchored the innings with a vital 45 runs off 34 balls, stabilizing the Pakistan lineup. The middle order contributed significantly, with Sidra Ameen adding a steady 28 runs off 25 deliveries and Nida Dar scoring 29 off 21 balls. Dar’s innings was not only crucial but also marked a personal milestone, as she became the third Pakistani woman to surpass 2000 T20I runs.

Fatima Sana and Aliya Riaz delivered crucial late blows, with Sana scoring an unbeaten 37 off 23 balls and Riaz contributing a rapid 17 not out from just 7 balls. Their contributions propelled Pakistan to a formidable total of 181/4 in 20 overs. In the bowling department for South Africa, Tumi Sekhukhune was the most successful bowler, taking 2 wickets for 27 runs. Sune Luus and Annerie Dercksen also made their mark with one wicket each?, but Pakistan managed to set a challenging target.

Record Alert

Pakistan 181-4, 20 overs (Muneeba Ali 45, Fatima Sana 37 not out, Nida Dar 29
South Africa are set a target of 182

This is Pakistan Highest ever total in T20I history #PAKWvSAW #Cricket pic.twitter.com/QJZ5CdIvUv

— Shakeel Khan Khattak (@ShakeelktkKhan) September 18, 2024

Also READ: Pakistan vs South Africa, Women’s T20I? series: Date, ??Match Time, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

South Africa Women’s run chase

South Africa Women began their chase of 182 runs with Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits opening the innings. Wolvaardt contributed 36 runs from 25 balls, but her partner Brits fell early, scoring just 9 runs. The middle order faced a tough challenge, with Anneke Bosch and Nadine de Klerk contributing 16 and 12 runs, respectively, but struggling to accelerate the innings. The game’s turning point came from Sune Luus and Chloe Tryon.

Luus played a scintillating innings, scoring 53* off 29 balls, while Tryon added a quick 30* off 16 balls. Despite their efforts, the target proved too steep. Sadia Iqbal and Nashra Sandhu played pivotal roles in the bowling attack for Pakistan. Iqbal’s early breakthrough and Sandhu’s economical spell were crucial in restricting South Africa to 168/4 in their 20 overs, sealing a 13-run victory for Pakistan. With the series now tied at 1-1, the third and final T20I will be a decisive encount?er. The match will be played at the Multan Cr?icket Stadium on Friday, where both teams will vie for supremacy in what promises to be a gripping conclusion to the series.

Pakistan defeated South Africa by 13 runs in the 2nd T20I 🏏#women #cricket #PAKvSA #MuneebaAli #Pakistan #CricketTwitter #WomenCricket pic.twitter.com/0So7Dg404k

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) September 19, 2024

Also READ: Grace Harris throws an indirect? dig at Steve Smith, David Warner over the ‘sandpaper�?saga

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Cricket Australia has unveiled the complete list of nominations for the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) overseas player draft, with a total of 161?? international cricketers vying for a spot in this summer’s highly anticipated tournament. With a mix of established stars and emerging talent, the draft promises to elevate the competition as clubs look to secure the best talent from around the world.

Pre-draft signings strengthen WBBL teams

Several players have already secured deals with WBBL clubs through pre-draft signings, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition. Notable signings include India’s Smriti Mandhana, who will join the Adelaide Strikers, and Nadine de Klerk of South Africa, who has been picked up by the Brisbane Heat. Other high-profile names include Lizelle Lee (Hobart Hurricanes), Hayley Matthews (Melbourne Renegades), Marizanne Kapp (Melbourne Stars), Sophie Devine (Perth Scorchers), Amelia Kerr (Sydney Sixers), and Chamari Athapaththu (Sydney Thunder??). These pre-signed players will bring a wealth of experience and flair to their respective teams, making them strong contenders for the upcoming season.

New nominations add depth to the WBBL draft

The 2024 WBBL overseas draft also features several exciting new nominations, with England’s Freya Davies, Kate Cross, and Lauren Filer leading the charge. South Africa’s captain Suné Luus has also thrown her hat in the ring, adding to the mix of international talent eager to showcase their skills in one of the world’s premier T20 leagues.

Also READ: Smriti Mandhana joins Adel?aide Strikers for the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League

Full list of nominations for WBBL Draft

• Afy Fletcher, West Indies
• Abigail Freeborn, England
• Abtaha Maqsood, Scotland
• Alexandra Candler, South Africa
• Alice Capsey, England (retention eligible for Stars)
• Aliya Riaz, Pakistan
• Amanjot Kaur, India
• Amy Jones, England (retention eligible for Scorchers)
• Ami Campbell, England
• Amy Hunter, Ireland
• Anneke Bosch, South Africa
• Annerie Dercksen, South Africa
• Arlene Kelly, Ireland
• Asha Sobhana, India
• Babette de Leede, Netherlands
• Bess Heath, England (retention eligible for Heat)
• Brooke Halliday, New Zealand
• Bryony Smith, England (retention eligible for Hurricanes)
• Caitlin Gurrey, New Zealand
• Charis Pavely, England
• Chinelle Henry, West Indies
• Chloe Tryon, South Africa (retention eligible for Sixers)
• Cordelia Griffith, England
• Danielle Gregory, England
• Danielle McGahey, Canada
• Danni Wyatt, England (retention eligible for Scorchers)
• Darcey Carter, Scotland
• Deandra Dottin, West Indies
• Deepti Sharma, India
• Diana Baig, Pakistan
• Eden Carson, New Zealand
• Eleanor Threlkeld, England
• Eliz-Mari Marx, South Africa
• Emily Arlott, England
• Emma Lamb, England
• Erika Oda, Japan
• Erika Toguchi-Quinn, Japan
• Esha Oza, United Arab Emirates
• Eva Gray, England
• Eve Jones, England (retention eligible for Renegades)
• Fatima Sana, Pakistan
• Faye Tunnicliffe, South Africa
• Fi Morris, England
• Fran Jonas, New Zealand
• Fran Wilson, England
• Freya Davies, England
• Gaby Lewis, Ireland
• Georgia Adams, England (retention eligible for Strikers)
• Georgia Plimmer, New Zealand
• Grace Ballinger, England
• Grace Scrivens, England
• Hannah Baker, England
• Hannah Rowe, New Zealand
• Harleen Deol, India
• Harmanpreet Kaur, India (retention eligible for Renegades)
• Harshitha Samarawickrama, Sri Lanka
• Heather Knight, England (retention eligible for Thunder)
• Heena Hotchandani, United Arab Emirates
• Hemalatha Dayalan, India
• Henao Jean Thomas, Papua New Guinea
• Hollie Armitage, England
• Humna Bilal, Pakistan
• Iqra Sahar, Hong Kong
• Issy Wong, England
• Jahanara Alam, Bangladesh
• Jemimah Rodrigues, India
• Jess Watkin, New Zealand
• Jessica Kerr, New Zealand (retention eligible for Sixers)
• Josephine Nkomo, Zimbabwe
• Ka Ying Chan, Hong Kong
• Kadek Winda Prastini, Indonesia
• Kary Chan, Hong Kong
• Kate Cross, England
• Kate Ebrahim, New Zealand
• Kathryn Bryce, Scotland
• Katie George, England
• Katie Levick, England
• Kavisha Egodage, United Arab Emirates
• Kelis Ndhlovu, Zimbabwe
• Kirstie Gordon, England
• Lakshmi Rajadurai, Papua New Guinea
• Laura Delany, Ireland
• Laura Wolvaardt, South Africa (retention eligible for Strikers)
• Lauren Filer, England
• Lauren Winfield-Hill, England (retention eligible for Scorchers)
• Lea Tahuhu, New Zealand
• Leah Dobson, England
• Lie Qiao, Indonesia
• Linsey Smith, England (retention eligible for Sixers)
• Loreen Tshuma, Zimbabwe
• Loryn N M Phiri, Zimbabwe
• Maddy Green, New Zealand
• Mady Villiers, England
• Mannat Kashyap, India
• Maria Corazon Konjep Wombaki, Indonesia
• Marie Kelly, England
• Mary-Anne Musonda, Zimbabwe
• Maryam Bibi, Hong Kong
• Meghana Sabbineni, India
• Meghna Singh, India
• Michaela Kirk, South Africa
• Molly Penfold, New Zealand
• Mona Meshram, India
• Muniba Ali, Pakistan
• Nannapat Khoncharoenkai, Thailand
• Naomi Dattani, England
• Nashra Sundhu, Pakistan
• Nasimana Navaika, Vanuatu
• Natasha Farrant, England
• Ni Luh Ketut Wesika Ratna Dewi, Indonesia
• Ni Made Putri Suwandewi, Indonesia
• Ni Putu Ayu Nanda Sakarini, Indonesia
• Nida Dar, Pakistan
• Nomvelo Sibanda, Zimbabwe
• Nonkululeko Mlaba, South Africa
• Onnicha Kamchomphu, Thailand
• Orla Prendergast, Ireland
• Paige Scholfield, England
• Precious Marange, Zimbabwe
• Rachel Andrew, Vanuatu
• Radha Yadav, India
• Rhianna Southby, England
• Robyn Searle, South Africa
• Rosemary Mair, New Zealand
• Ryana MacDonald-Gay, England
• Sadaf Shamas, Pakistan
• Sadia Iqbal, Pakistan
• Sajana Sajeevan, India
• Samaira Dharnidharka, United Arab Emirates
• Sarah Bryce, Scotland
• Selina Solman, Vanuatu
• Seren Smale, England
• Seri Chang, South Korea
• Shabnim Ismail, South Africa (retention eligible for Hurricanes)
• Shakera Selman, West Indies
• Shamilia Connell, West Indies
• Shikha Pandey, India
• Shreyanka Patil, India
• Sinalo Jafta, South Afric
• Sneh Rana, India
• Sophia Dunkley, England (retention eligible for Stars)
• Sophia Smale, England
• Sophie Ecclestone, England (retention eligible for Sixers)
• Sophie Munro, England
• Sterre Kalis, Netherlands
• Suleeporn Laomi, Thailand
• Suné Luus, South Africa
• Sunette Viljoen-Louw, South Africa
• Suzie Bates, New Zealand (retention eligible for Sixers)
• Syeda Aroob Shah, Pakistan
• Tara Norris, United States
• Tazmin Brits, South Africa
• Theertha Satish, United Arab Emirates
• Thipatcha Putthawong, Thailand
• Titas Sadhu, India
• Tuba Hassan, Pakistan
• Vaishnave Mahesh, United Arab Emirates
• Veda Krishnamurthy, India
• Xara Jetly, New Zealand
• Yastika Bhatia, India
• Yasmeen Khan, Namibia

A??lso READ: ??Australia unveil squad for Women’s T20 World Cup 2024; no place for Jess Jonassen

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

India Women and Pakistan Women will face each other in the second match of the ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024. This match will be held at the Rangiri Dambulla?? International Stadium in Dambulla on Friday (July 19).

India will enter the match following a decent series against South Africa and is expected to put up a strong performance. They are the defending champions and have historically been dominant in the Asia Cup. Pakistan have had a challenging time in the T20 format, losing their las??t four games. However, they will look to turn things around in this high-stakes encounter against their arch-rivals.

Key players to watch:

India Women:

• Smriti Mandhana: A consistent performer and a key player at the top of the order.
• Harmanpreet Kaur: The captain, known for her powerful hitting and leadership skills.
• Asha Sobhana: A crafty spinner who can exploit the conditions in Dambulla.

Pakistan Women:

• Aliya Riaz: The experienced and attacking batter who will be crucial in stabilizing the batting order.
• Nida Dar: An all-rounder who can contribute significantly with both bat and ball.
• Diana Baig: A pace bowler who might benefit from the expected movement due to cloud cover.

Also READ: Women��s Asia Cup 2024: Here are the complete squads ?of all 8 teams

Dambulla Weather Report:

The second Women’s Asia Cup 2024 encounter between India and Pakistan at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium promises to proceed under clear skies, providing ideal conditions for a thrilling match. Unlike the uncertainty often brought by rain, no precipitation is anticipated, allowing uninterrupted play. The temperature is forecasted to peak at a warm 33 degrees Celsius, ensuring a hot day that could test the endurance of the players.

With ??humidity levels hovering around 66%, the atmosphere will be quite muggy, potentially affecting stamina and grip, especially as the game progresses. Moreover, the wind is expected to blow at a steady speed of approximately 29 kmph. This breeze can be a crucial factor, particularly for the fast bowlers who might exploit the conditions to generate some swing and movement off the?? pitch.

Also READ: Anika Kolan to lead as USA announces U-1??9 women’s squad for West Indies series

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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Pakistan’s cricketing fraternity came together on Friday to celebrate the wedding of national women’s team star Aliya Riaz and commentator Ali Younis.

Aliya Riaz weds Ali Younis

The Nikkah ceremony, a traditional Islamic marriage ?ceremony, took place at the pictu??resque Barki Road Farm House in Lahore.

The couple, engaged earlier this month in a private function, exchanged vows surrounded by close family, friends, and fellow cricketers. Ali Younis is the younger brother of legendary fast bowler Waqar Younis.

Leading the well wishes was former Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof, joined by other prominent national women’s team players Nida Dar, Anam Amin, Iram Javed, Sidra Amin and Natalia Parvez.

The event also saw a strong showing from current and former Pakistan men’s cricketers.

Also READ: ICC Women’s Rankings

Pakistan captain Babar Azam and other cricket stars attending Pakistan Women's cricketer Aliya Riaz.#BabarAzam #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/pK2SiNKRDg

— Ahtasham Riaz (@ahtashamriaz22) April 12, 2024

Babar Azam, the national white-ball captain, shared the joyous occasion alongside Azhar Ali, Mohammad Yousuf, Mushtaq Ahmed, Ramiz Raja, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Kamran Akmal, Misbah-ul-Haq and Umar Akmal.

Nida Dar and Babar Azam clicked at Aliya Riaz's engagement ceremony. #BabarAzam𓃵 pic.twitter.com/LIKQLYswlF

— Babar Azam World (@Babarazam958) April 13, 2024

Exclusive📽�?br />Babar Azam with Kamran Akmal and Ramiz Raja at the Nikah Ceremony of Aliya Riaz.#BabarAzam𓃵 I #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/dS1z8JRbmS

— Pakistan Cricket Team USA FC (@DoctorofCricket) April 12, 2024

Babar Azam spotted at the Nikkah Ceremony of Aliya Riaz#BoycottAvinashAryan

pic.twitter.com/Qn1eiTG7lT

— Ehtisham Siddique (@iMShami_) April 12, 2024

Aliya Riaz and Ali Younis tied the knot in Lahore, attended by Babar Azam, Azhar Ali, Misbah Ul Haq and other former cricketers. pic.twitter.com/WmStPAX9Xv

— TOK Sports (@TOKSports021) April 12, 2024

Aliya Riaz – A renowned name in Pakistan Cricket

The bride, Aliya, is a celebrated figure in Pakistani women’s cricket. As the team’s top all-rounder, she has donned the national colors in 62 ODIs and 83 T20I matches. Her talent has been on display on the world stage, with notable performances in the 2018 ICC Women’s World Twenty20 and the 2020 edition, showcasing her dedication and exceptional skills.

Also READ: PCB announces Pakistan Women’s ODI and T20I squads for the home white-ball series against West Indies

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the 16-member Women’s ODI and T20I squads for the forthcoming home series against the West Indies. The series, slated to commence in mid-A??pril, marks a significant encounter for both teams as they gear up for the white-ball battle on Pakistani soil.

ODIs as part of ICC Women’s Championship

The upcoming series will kick off with a set of three One Day Internationals (ODIs), integral fixtures within the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25. This championship holds paramount importance as teams vie for points to secure direct qualification for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup scheduled for the following year. Following the ODIs, a series of five Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) will take place, offering vital preparation for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

Leadership and squad inclusions

Nida Dar, the seasoned all-rounder, will continue to lead the Women in Green in both formats. However, the participation of veteran cricketer Bismah Maroof in both squads is contingent upon her fitness. In the ODI squad, the return of wicketkeeper-batter Sidra Nawaz is notable. Sidra, boas?ting ??significant experience with 67 ODIs and 56 T20Is under her belt, last represented Pakistan in ODIs against South Africa in September 2023.

Likewise, the T20I squad sees the comeback of Ayesha Zafar, Gull Feroza, Rameen Shamim, and Tuba Hassan. Ayesha, with 29 ODIs and 20 T20Is, last featured in Pakistan’s T20I squad against South Africa in 2021. Feroza’s last T20I appearance was against Sri Lanka in 2022, while Shamim’s last T20I match dated back to 2019 against South Africa. Hassan, who debuted in ODIs against Australia in 2023, was last seen in T20I action against England during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2023.

Selectors’ vision

Chief Selector Saleem Jaffar expressed the significance of the series against the West Indies, highlighting the pivotal role of ODIs in the ICC Women’s Championship. He emphasized the team’s aim to secure maximum points leveraging the home advantage, thereby strengthening their prospects for direct qualification to the upcoming ICC Women?’s ODI World Cup.

“The series against the West Indies is important for us as the ODIs are part of ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25. We are aiming to secure maximum points in the series, taking advantage of our home conditions, to enhance our chances for direct qualification for next year’s ICC Women’s ODI World Cup,” said Jaffar in an official statement.

Also READ: South Africa vs Sri Lanka 2024, Women’s ODI series – Date, Match, Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

Pakistan Women’s ODI squad

Nida Dar (captain), Aliya Riaz, Bismah Maroof (subject to fitness), Diana Baig, Fatima Sana, M??uneeba Ali, Najiha Alvi (wk), Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz (wk), Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani and Waheeda Akhtar.

Pakistan Women’s T20I squad

Nida Dar (captain), Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Bismah Maroof (subject to fitness), Diana Baig, Fatima Sana, Gull Feroza, Muneeba Ali (wk), Najiha Alvi (wk), Nashra Sundhu, Natalia ??Parvaiz, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Tuba Hassan and Umm-e-Hani.

Also READ: India to tour Bangladesh for the five-match Women’s T20I Se?ries in April-May

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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Pakistan’s cricket fans erupted in joy as star all-rounder Aliya Riaz got engaged to PSL commentator Ali Younis.

A private engagement ceremony

The intimate ceremony, held in Wah Cantt, was attended by close family members, but pictures soon found their way to soc??ial m?edia, spreading the happy news far and wide.

This union holds special significance, bringing together not just two lives but also two prominent figures within Pakistani cricket. Ali Younis is the younger brother of legendary fast bowler Waqar Younis, adding another layer of?? celebration to ??the occasion.

?The cricketing community wasted no time in showering the couple with congratulations and well wishes for their upcoming journey together.

Also WATCH: Amelia Kerr bamboozles Danielle Wyatt with an unp??layable googly in NZ vs ENG 1st WODI

Aliya Riaz’s cricketing journey

Aliya Riaz, a name synonymous with power-hitting and match-winning performances, boasts a stellar career. She has donned the national colours in a staggering 62 ODIs and 83 T20Is, amassing over 12?00 runs an?d 30 wickets in ODIs alone. Her T20I record is equally impressive, with over 900 runs and 20 wickets to her name.

Earlier this year, Riaz etched her name in cricketing history by hammering a blazing 16-ball fifty, the third fastest in women’s T20 cricket.

Also READ: Fastest to 50 WODI wickets – England’s Charlie Dean scripts history against New Zealand

This powerful all-rounder’s talent, coupled with Younis’ commentary skills, promises a bright future for the couple both on and off the field.

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.