Pakistan’s preparations for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland have been shaken by an untimely injury to middle-order batter Sadaf Shamas. The 20-year-old was ruled out after suffering a tear in her left quadriceps during a training session in Karachi, forcing the team to make a quick adjustment just days before departure.
Stepping in is opener Shawaal Zulfiqar, who makes her return to the T20I setup after an eight-month absence. The young batter last played in December 2023 but was sidelined following a shoulder injury. She recently featured in Pakistan’s ODI World Cup Qualifier campaign, marking her return to international cricket.
Zulfiqar’s Comeback a Strategic Boost for the Top Order
Zulfiqar’s recall adds a layer of experience to an otherwise youthful batting lineup. Despite modest returns in her last few appearances—scoring just 8 runs in two World Cup Qualifier matches—selectors have placed their faith in her, banking on her domestic form and prior international exposure. She will join the squad in Belfast on August 3, just three days before the series opener.
The 20-year-old was recently part of Pakistan’s high-performance skills camp, suggesting she has remained in the selectors’ plans despite her injury setback. Her presence could be crucial in stabilizing the top order in Shamas’ absence.
Young Blood: Eyman Fatima Gets the Nod
Joining Zulfiqar in the squad is another 20-year-old, Eyman Fatima, whose performances in the National T20 tournament earned her a place. Fatima’s inclusion reflects Pakistan’s continued investment in young talent, aiming to strike the right balance between emerging players and seasoned campaigners ahead of major international events.
Ireland Tour a Key Step Toward 2026 World Cup Goals
The three-match series, scheduled entirely in Belfast, is more than just another bilateral contest. With the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup looming, every international outing counts as a building block in Pakistan’s long-term strategy. Head coach and captain Fatima Sana will be looking to test combinations and resilience, especially in the wake of losing a key middle-order player.
While Shamas’ absence is a blow, the decision to recall Zulfiqar underscores the team’s growing bench strength—an encouraging sign as Pakistan aims to deepen its talent pool and gain momentum on the road to global competitions.
