Pakistan's New Captain: The Surprise Leader for the Emerging Nations Trophy

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-30

Muneeba Ali will captain Pakistan at the ICC Women's Emerging Nations Trophy, and it's a decision that raises a few eyebrows—but in a good way. The tournament runs from November 12 to 25 in Ajman, UAE, and Pakistan will be without their regular skipper, Fatima Sana. ### Why Fatima Sana Is Missing Sana got the green light to skip this one because of her commitments with the Perth Scorchers in the Women's Big Bash League. It's her first stint in the Australian tournament, and honestly, you can't blame her for taking the opportunity. The WBBL is one of the biggest stages in women's cricket, and Pakistan cricket benefits when their players get that kind of exposure. So, in steps Muneeba Ali. She's no stranger to leadership—she captained the side in the three-match T20I series in Sri Lanka earlier this year. Ayesha Zafar will be her deputy. ### A Squad Built on Asian Games Success Pakistan's selectors have kept faith with the group that won bronze at the Asian Games in Japan. Twelve of those players make the cut for this 14-member squad. Sadaf Shamas and Waheeda Akhtar return after missing that tournament, which adds fresh options. The batting line-up looks solid: Zafar, Gull Feroza, Shamas, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Eyman Fatima, and Saira Jabeen. Keep an eye on Eman Naseer, just 19, who made her debut in the Sri Lanka series and has three T20Is under her belt. She's one for the future. ### Bowling Attack: Spin to Win Left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu leads the attack. She's the only Pakistani in the ICC top 10 for women's T20I bowlers, and her experience will be crucial. Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, and Momina Riasat give the captain plenty of spin options. Tasmia Rubab and Waheeda Akhtar are the two pacers. Muneeba and Feroza will don the gloves. Here's the full squad: - Muneeba Ali (captain, wicketkeeper) - Ayesha Zafar (vice-captain) - Eman Naseer - Eyman Fatima - Gull Feroza (wicketkeeper) - Momina Riasat - Nashra Sandhu - Sadaf Shamas - Saira Jabeen - Shawaal Zulfiqar - Tasmia Rubab - Tuba Hassan - Umm-e-Hani - Waheeda Akhtar ### Group B: A Tough Draw The tournament has expanded from eight to 10 teams, and Pakistan are one of five Full Member nations making their debut. They're in Group B with defending champions Thailand, Bangladesh, the Netherlands, and Zimbabwe. The top three from each group advance to the Super Six stage, followed by semi-finals and the final. Pakistan open their campaign against Bangladesh on November 12—the first day of the tournament. It's a tough start, but this squad has the talent to make some noise. As Muneeba Ali said, "It's an honor to lead this young and exciting team. We have a good mix of experience and youth, and we're ready to take on the challenge." For more cricket news and updates, keep an eye on our blog.