Injury Forces Pakistan Into Late T20I Squad Change Ahead of Ireland Tour

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s preparations for their upcoming women’s T20I series in Ireland have suffered a setback, forcing the management tochange the squad at the last minute.

The change has been made after top-order batter Sadaf Shamas was ruled out with a torn left quadriceps, sustained during a practice session in Karachi. In her place, Shawaal Zulfiqar has been named as a replacement in the 15-member squad.

The injury comes as a blow to Pakistan’s batting plans, with Sadaf expected to feature prominently in the top order during the three-match series in Belfast. Medical scans revealed a muscle tear that will require rehabilitation, ruling her out of the tour entirely.

Stepping in is 18-year-old Shawaal, who was part of the recent skills camp in Karachi but did not initially make the touring squad. She is set to join the team in Ireland on August 3, just days ahead of the opening T20I on August 6.

This marks a fresh opportunity for the promising youngster, who returns to the T20I fold after last featuring in December 2023. Shawaal had been sidelined earlier this year with a shoulder injury but recovered in time to take part in the Women’s ODI World Cup Qualifier in Lahore.

The rest of the Pakistan squad for the T20I series against Ireland remains untouched. Pakistan will be led by Fatima Sana as the team looks to kick off its cricketing calendar on a positive note.

The three-match series will be held in Belfast and offers Pakistan a key chance to build depth and rhythm ahead of upcoming global competitions. The selectors will be hoping the late change doesn’t disrupt the team’s momentum as they continue to integrate new faces alongside seasoned campaigners.

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Pakistan’s revised squad for Ireland T20I series:

Fatima Sana (capt.), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Muneeba Ali (wk.), Najiha Alvi (wk.), Nashra Sandhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Rameen Shamim, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Tuba Hassan, Waheeda Akhtar.