Pakistan’s preparations for their upcoming women’s T20I series in Ireland have taken an unexpected hit with top-order batter Sadaf Shamas suffering an injury just days before departure. The 22-year-old has been forced out of the squad after tearing her left quadriceps during a training session.
In response, the selectors have called up opener Shawaal Zulfiqar as a late replacement. The recall marks Shawaal’s return to international cricket after nearly 19 months away from the T20I scene—her last appearance came in December 2023.
Shawaal Steps Back Into the Spotlight
Shawaal will fly out to Ireland this Sunday to join the team ahead of the three-match series. A naturally aggressive opener, she brings a youthful energy and hunger that the side may lean on in Shamas’ absence. While the injury is a blow to team balance, the return of Shawaal offers an intriguing subplot to the series: can the 19-year-old seize her second chance in green?
Her reintegration into the national setup suggests that the selectors still see promise in her skill set, especially on foreign pitches where adaptability and quick starts are key.
Full Updated Squad for Ireland Tour
With Shawaal’s inclusion, Pakistan’s final squad for the series now looks like this:
- Fatima Sana (captain)
- Aliya Riaz
- Diana Baig
- Eyman Fatima
- Gull Feroza
- Muneeba Ali (wk)
- Najiha Alvi (wk)
- Nashra Sandhu
- Natalia Parvaiz
- Rameen Shamim
- Sadia Iqbal
- Sidra Amin
- Tuba Hassan
- Waheeda Akhtar
- Shawaal Zulfiqar
Pakistan will be hoping that the change in lineup won’t disrupt their momentum as they look to build on recent performances. The series in Ireland is seen as crucial preparation ahead of future ICC events, making every match—and player opportunity—count.