Embarking on a cricketing odyssey, the Nida Dar-led Pakistan women’s cricket team is set to venture into the cricketing heartland of New Zealand. Packed with a 17-member squad boasting a mix of seasoned players and promising youngsters, the team gears up for a riveting series of three T20Is and three ODIs. As the departure from Karachi to New Zealand looms, anticipation and excitement fill the air, promising cricket enthusiasts an enthralling display of skill and strategy.
Cricketing Excitement Down Under
As the Nida Dar-led Pakistan women’s cricket team prepares to embark on a cricketing odyssey to New Zealand, the anticipation is palpable. The 17-member squad, featuring a blend of experience and promising young talent, is gearing up for a series of challenges in the land of the Kiwis. The tour encompasses three T20Is and three ODIs, with the ODIs holding significance as part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25. Let’s delve into the key aspects and highlights of this exciting cricketing venture.
Warm-up Matches: A Prelude to Action
28 Nov – 50-over Warm-up Match vs. NZXI
Before the official series kick-off, the Pakistan women’s team will engage in a 50-over warm-up match against NZXI at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln on November 28. This fixture serves as a crucial opportunity for players to fine-tune their skills and adapt to the New Zealand conditions.
30 Nov – T20 Warm-up Match vs. NZXI
Following the 50-over encounter, the focus shifts to a T20 warm-up match against NZXI at the same venue on November 30. This T20 fixture provides a platform for the team to test their strategies and get accustomed to the fast-paced nature of the shortest format of the game.
Series Schedule: Mark Your Calendars
T20I Series (3 Dec, 5 Dec, 9 Dec)
The T20I series is set to unfold in Dunedin and Queenstown on December 3, 5, and 9, promising cricket enthusiasts an exciting spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer athleticism. The matches are scheduled to commence at 1 pm local time, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the afternoon cricketing showdowns.
ODI Series (12 Dec, 15 Dec, 18 Dec)
Transitioning to the ODI leg of the tour, the Pakistan women’s team will compete in three ODIs on December 12, 15, and 18 in Queenstown and Christchurch. What adds significance to these matches is their inclusion in the ICC Women’s Championship, adding a competitive edge and meaning to each delivery bowled and every run scored.
Coaching Camp: Sharpening the Skills
Before bidding farewell to home soil, the Pakistan women’s team underwent an intensive four-day training camp in Karachi. Under the guidance of the coaching staff, led by Mauhtashim Rashid, the players engaged in rigorous net sessions, simulated match scenarios, and even participated in a one-day practice game. This preparation aimed to ensure that the squad is not just physically ready but also mentally attuned to the challenges that await them in New Zealand.
Squad Insights: Nida Dar’s Vision
In a media address at the conclusion of the training camp, captain Nida Dar expressed her optimism about the squad. She highlighted the return of talented players like Fatima Sana and Shawaal Zulfiqar, along with the emergence of young prospects like Umm-e-Hani. Nida Dar emphasized the team’s performance in the recent South Africa series and expressed confidence in players like Nashra Sundhu and Sadia Iqbal, both ranking in the top 10 ICC T20I bowlers.
Building Squad Depth for the Future
Looking beyond the immediate series, Nida Dar outlined a strategic vision for the team. The focus is on building squad depth, with plans to have a robust pool of eight to ten fast bowlers and batters. This initiative aims to create a strong foundation for not just the senior team but also for U19 and Emerging teams, ensuring a pipeline of talent for the future.
Squad Roster and Support Personnel
| Pakistan Squad | Player Support Personnel |
|---|---|
| Nida Dar (captain), Aliya Riaz, Bismah Maroof, Diana Baig, Fatima Sana, Ghulam Fatima, Muneeba Ali (wk), Najiha Alvi (wk), Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Umm-e-Hani, Waheeda Akhtar | Nahida Khan (manager), Mauhtashim Rashid (interim head coach), Saleem Jaffar (bowling coach), Taufeeq Umar (batting coach), Muhammad Asfand Yar (strength and conditioning coach), Syed Nazir Ahmed (media manager), Rifat Asghar Gill (physiotherapist), Zubair Ahmed (analyst) |
How and Where to Watch Pakistan Wome’s Cricket vs New Zealand Women’s Cricket Match?
Both encounters will be broadcasted live on the New Zealand YouTube channel, with the inaugural delivery set to be bowled at 11 am local time. You can also watch the match live on ptvsportsonline.com.
Conclusion: A Promising Cricketing Expedition
As the Pakistan women’s cricket team gears up for their journey to New Zealand, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding of this exciting chapter. The blend of experience and youth, coupled with meticulous preparation and strategic vision, positions the team for success. With warm-up matches providing a glimpse of the team’s readiness and the series schedule promising thrilling encounters, the cricketing world is set for an enthralling spectacle down under. The Nida Dar-led squad carries not just the hopes of the present but the aspirations of a cricketing future marked by depth and excellence.
