Fatima Sana poised to create history for Pakistan at CWC25

Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana is set to lead the side for the first time at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, beginning on September 30.

The all-rounder, determined to make a strong impact and fully aware of the tournament’s significance, is focused on improving Pakistan’s performances after their underwhelming showings in previous editions, setting her sights on guiding them into the top-four for the first time in their history.

“This time, the jinx will definitely be broken because the young players know how important this tournament is for Pakistan women’s cricket," she told PTI.

"We will not think about the past. My goal is to take the team to the semifinals.”

Pakistan have featured in five editions of the Women’s ODI World Cup, having made their debut appearance back in 1997.

However, they have managed just three wins since then, with their most recent coming against West Indies back in 2022.

Under Sana’s leadership however, the team have displayed positive signs, highlighted by their unbeaten run in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 that secured their spot in the main event.

Deep diving into the changing landscape of women's cricket in Pakistan, the 33-year-old was all praise for the ICC’s announcement of a record prize money for the upcoming Women’s Cricket World Cup.

“In Pakistan, girls have started playing cricket in schools and international matches are being telecast live.

"ICC has also taken a good initiative by increasing the prize money for the Women’s World Cup, which will inspire budding players in Pakistan. But there is still a barrier which we have to break through this tournament.”

Pakistan will kick off their Cricket World Cup campaign against Bangladesh on October 2 in Colombo.