The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced the 15-member squad for the six-team ACC Women’s U-19 T20 Asia Cup, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur from December 15 to 22, 2024. With an exciting line-up of talented players and strong leadership, the squad is set to compete against Asia’s finest teams. Pakistan, a key contender, has announced a well-rounded squad aiming to make its mark in this prestigious tournament.
Pakistan Squad Announcement
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed its 15-member squad after an intense selection process. Zoofishan Ayyaz, known for her tactical acumen, has been appointed as the captain, while Komal Khan will serve as the vice-captain. With a mix of experienced youth and fresh talent, the squad aims to strike the perfect balance between skill and strategy.
The squad was finalized after a 21-day skills and fitness camp that featured 32 potential players. The camp included rigorous training sessions and three intra-squad matches, providing the selectors with valuable insights into the players’ form and fitness. The comprehensive evaluation ensured that the best talent was chosen to represent Pakistan.
Team Composition
Batters
The batting line-up boasts promising players like Areesha Ansari, Fizza Fiaz, and Maham Anees. These top-order batters bring a combination of aggression and stability, essential for building solid innings.
Wicketkeepers
Komal Khan, a reliable wicketkeeper, will be joined by Wasifa Hussain, adding depth and flexibility behind the stumps.
Spinners
The spin department features Aleesa Mukhtiar, Quratulain, and Rozina Akram, who are expected to thrive in the subcontinental conditions of Kuala Lumpur.
Fast Bowlers
A formidable pace attack, led by Fatima Khan, Haniah Ahmer, and Mahnoor Zeb, promises to trouble opposition batters with pace and precision.
Tournament Structure
The tournament features two groups:
- Group A: Pakistan, India, Nepal
- Group B: Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia
Pakistan will kick off their campaign with a high-octane match against arch-rivals India on December 15, followed by a clash with Nepal on December 16. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Four stage, with the final set for December 22.
Despite their strengths, Pakistan faces tough competition, especially from India and Bangladesh. Additionally, adapting to the weather and pitch conditions in Kuala Lumpur will be crucial.
Pakistan Women U-19 Squad: Areesha Ansari (Kasur), Fizza Fiaz (Lahore), Maham Anees (Islamabad), Ravail Farhan (Lahore), Zoofishan Ayyaz (Wah Cantt);
Wicketkeepers: Komal Khan (Lahore), Wasifa Hussain (Karachi)
Spinners: Aleesa Mukhtiar (Muzaffargarh), Quratulain (Sialkot), Rozina Akram (Rawalpindi), Tayyaba Imdad (Abbottabad);
Fast bowlers: Fatima Khan (Lahore), Haniah Ahmer (Karachi), Mahnoor Zeb (Mardan), Shahar Bano, (Lodhran).
Player support personnel: Aisha Jalil (manager), Mohsin Kamal (head coach), Mohammad Hanif Malik (assistant coach), Nahida Khan (fielding coach), Mohammad Usman Shahid (analyst), Rabia Siddiq (physio), Mohammad Rafi Ullah (media and digital manager).
Fixtures of Pakistan Team
15 December – Sri Lanka v Malaysia (9.30am, KL time); Pakistan v India (2pm, KL time)
16 December – Sri Lanka v Bangladesh (9.0am, KL time); Pakistan v Nepal (2pm, KL time)
17 December – Bangladesh v Malaysia (9.30am, KL time); India v Nepal (2pm, KL time)
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