By: Jangsu
Pakistan women’s cricket has added two new names to the T20 squad announced for the tour of South Africa, including Saira Jabeen and fast bowler Hamna Bilal, while Fatima Sana has been retained as captain in both the ODI and T20 formats.
The most notable news of this squad is the inclusion of Saira Jabeen, which is not just a debut call-up but a sign of the expansion and diversity in the geographical boundaries of Pakistani women’s cricket.
Hailing from the remote Rambur Kalash Valley of Chitral, Saira has become the first female cricketer from Chitral to be selected in the Pakistan Women’s National Team.
A top-order batsman and right-arm medium fast bowler, Saira Jabeen, has been selected for the T20 series against South Africa starting February 10 in Potchefstroom.
Saira Jabeen’s cricket journey also reflects her struggle and dedication to the game. She has made her mark playing for platforms like Invincibles, PCB Dynamites, Lahore Women, Punjab University and Conquerors. She has also stood out as an emerging player in the National Cup. She has experience playing first-grade women’s cricket in Australia and has secured a contract in Sydney.
The story here is not limited to cricket. Coming from a region where the concept of women’s cricket is considered difficult, reaching the national team is a reflection of Saira’s individual struggle as well as the changing landscape of female cricketers in Pakistan.
This tour of South Africa for the Pakistan Women’s Team is also an important stage in the preparations for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup!
