Muneeba to Lead Pakistan in Women’s Emerging Trophy

News Desk

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday appointed experienced wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali to lead the national squad in the upcoming ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026.

Top-order batter Ayesha Zafar has been named vice-captain of the 14-member squad for the marquee tournament, which is scheduled to take place in Ajman, United Arab Emirates, from November 12 to 25.

The squad demonstrates a balance of stability and tactical adjustments, with 12 players retained from Pakistan’s previous international assignment.

Selection panel officials confirmed recalls for batter Sadaf Shamas and pacer Waheeda Akhtar. Meanwhile, regular captain Fatima Sana will miss the regional tournament as she prepares for her inaugural stint in Australia’s Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).

In-form wicketkeeper-batter Gull Feroza, recognized as the top performer at the recently concluded National Women’s T20 Tournament, also earned a well-deserved spot.

The announcement follows Pakistan’s commendable bronze medal finish at the Asian Games in Japan, signaling a continued push to fortify bench strength across formats.

The batting lineup features dynamic talents such as Eyman Fatima, Eman Naseer, Saira Jabeen, and Shawaal Zulfiqar.

The bowling attack will be spearheaded by seasoned left-arm spinner Nashra Sundhu, flanked by a capable spin department including Momina Riasat, Tuba Hassan, and Umm-e-Hani, alongside fast bowler Tasmia Rubab.

The national contingent is slated to convene in Lahore for a brief preparatory training module prior to flying out to the United Arab Emirates next week.

PCB officials anticipate that the high-stakes tournament in Ajman will serve as an ideal testing ground for emerging talent attempting to secure long-term spots in the senior setup ahead of upcoming global ICC events.