Fatima Sana Leads Pakistan, But Administration Holds the Key
Fatima Sana shines as Pakistan’s cricket captain, showcasing talent, leadership, and promise. But without a robust grassroots system and stable administration, the country’s women’s cricket faces hurdles that no single leader can fix alone.
12:10 PM Oct 03, 2025 IST
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Aakash Khuman
Under Colombo’s twilight, Pakistan’s women’s team prepared for their 2025 ODI World Cup opener. Laughter and chatter filled the nets until former captain Sana Mir arrived, sharing hugs, advice, and a motivational pep talk. The squad’s positive energy is a reassurance for the team’s veterans and hints at what Fatima Sana brings as captain—both skill and spirit.
Journey to the World Cup
Pakistan qualified for the 50-over World Cup after an unbeaten run in the qualifiers. Over the past year, the team played 11 matches, including T20Is and qualifiers. A bilateral series against South Africa helped batters regain form, bowling sharpened, and fielding improved—all under Fatima’s guidance, showing her emerging influence at just 23.
Fatima Sana ’s Impact
Sana Mir recalls spotting Fatima in domestic cricket and immediately recognizing her optimism and spark. Initially a drinks runner in her first tournament, Fatima quickly adapted, taking on responsibilities from domestic cricket to international tours. Her blend of talent and leadership has made her a cornerstone for Pakistan’s future.
Challenges in Administration
Former selector Marina Iqbal notes that administrative changes have disrupted Pakistan’s domestic cricket system. While central contracts, emerging player support, and regular under-19 tournaments exist, the overall framework lacks strength. Introducing formats like red-ball cricket could strengthen the foundation, but consistent investment remains a challenge.
Physicality and Performance
Pakistan’s women cricketers, like others from the subcontinent, face physical challenges compared to taller, more powerfully built players from countries like Australia or England. Improving power-hitting and strike rates remains a focus, though individual players like Fatima continue to lead by example.
Building Confidence
Scouts search remote northern regions for bigger, stronger players, but lack of infrastructure hampers progress. Mental barriers, as much as physical limitations, affect hitting and acceleration during crucial overs. Experts emphasize the need for resources, better scouting, and consistent development programs.
Coaching Perspective
Instead of chasing raw pace, Pakistan is shifting focus to controlled bowling and swing, as seen in players like Nashra Sandhu and Sadia Iqbal. Experience still drives the team’s success, but without structured systems, nurturing consistent talent remains a struggle.
The Women’s PSL Dream
A women’s Pakistan Super League has been a long-awaited goal. Iqbal recalls early exhibition matches and international exposure helping young players grow. Teams like Lahore Qalandars are keen to invest, but stability and long-term commitment are essential to match leagues like the WPL or Big Bash.
Investment and Patience
Sana Mir stresses that treating women’s cricket with the same respect and resources as men’s cricket is crucial. Patience, consistent investment, and structured domestic systems are necessary for a cricketing culture to flourish in Pakistan, rather than quick, short-term decisions.
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