PAK vs SA: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against South Africa

Pakistan and South Africa are set to clash in a three-match T20I series, starting on September 16th in Multan. This series promises to be an exciting contest between two evenly matched teams.

Pakistan’s stable and balanced squad

Fatima Sana will lead the Pakistani charge, hoping to inspire her team to victory. The batting lineup boasts experienced players like Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, and Muneeba Ali, who will be crucial in providing stability. The bowling attack, led by Nashra Sundhu and Nida Dar, will look to restrict South Africa’s scoring.

Batting heavy Proteas charging in Pakistan

Laura Wolvaardt, the South African captain, will be the key player to watch. Her batting prowess and leadership qualities will be vital for her team’s success. The Proteas also have a strong batting lineup with players like Tazmin Brits and Mieke de Ridder. The bowling department, led by Marizanne Kapp and Ayabonga Khaka, will be crucial in containing Pakistan’s batters.

Key players to watch out for

• Fatima Sana: As the captain, Fatima will be the cornerstone of Pakistan’s team. Her all-round abilities, including her aggressive batting and fast-medium bowling, make her a valuable asset.
• Nida Dar: A seasoned campaigner, Dar is known for her off-spin bowling and aggressive batting. Her ability to control the game and finish innings strongly will be crucial for Pakistan.

• Laura Wolvaardt: A class act, Laura is one of the best batters in the world. Her elegant stroke play and ability to anchor the innings will be key for South Africa.
• Marizanne Kapp: A veteran of the game, Kapp is a dangerous all-rounder. Her pace bowling and powerful hitting make her a formidable opponent.

Both teams have talented players and are capable of winning the series. Pakistan will be looking to capitalize on home advantage and play to their strengths. South Africa, on the other hand, will be aiming to use their experience and skills to secure a victory.

Also READ: Pakistan announces squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, names new captain

Best XI of Pakistan Women’s Team Against South Africa

1. Fatima Sana (Captain)
   • Role: All-rounder
   • Position: Middle-order batter, right-arm medium-fast bowler
   • Strengths: As captain, Fatima leads from the front with her all-round capabilities. She is known for her ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball, providing crucial breakthroughs and stabilizing the batting order.
2. Muneeba Ali (Wicket-keeper)
   • Role: Wicket-keeper batter
   • Position: Opener
   • Strengths: Muneeba is a dynamic opener with a solid technique and agility behind the stumps. Her ability to accelerate the scoring rate in the powerplay is vital for setting a strong foundation.
3. Sidra Ameen
   • Role: Batter
   • Position: Top-order batter
   • Strengths: Known for her consistency and ability to build innings, Sidra can anchor the batting lineup and is proficient at rotating the strike and finding gaps.
4. Nida Dar
   • Role: All-rounder
   • Position: Middle-order batter, off-spin bowler
   • Strengths: Nida is a powerful hitter and a crafty bowler. Her experience and ability to perform under pressure make her a key player in both batting and bowling departments.
5. Iram Javed
   • Role: Batter
   • Position: Middle-order batter
   • Strengths: Iram is versatile, capable of playing aggressively or defensively. Her adaptability allows her to adjust her game based on the match situation.
6. Aliya Riaz
   • Role: All-rounder
   • Position: Middle-order batter, right-arm medium-fast bowler
   • Strengths: Aliya brings balance to the team with her dual skills. She can change the momentum with her batting and provides depth in the bowling attack.
7. Omaima Sohail
   • Role: All-rounder
   • Position: Middle-order batter, right-arm medium-fast bowler
   • Strengths: Omaima is an emerging talent known for her aggressive batting style and effective bowling. She can contribute significantly in both aspects of the game.
8. Nashra Sandhu
   • Role: Bowler
   • Position: Left-arm orthodox spinner
   • Strengths: Nashra is a skilled spinner who can control the game by taking wickets at crucial times. Her ability to bowl economically makes her a vital part of the bowling attack.
9. Diana Baig
   • Role: Bowler
   • Position: Right-arm medium-fast bowler
   • Strengths: Diana is known for her pace and ability to swing the ball, making her a threatening option with the new ball and in the death overs.
10. Sadaf Shamas
    • Role: Bowler
    • Position: Right-arm medium-fast bowler
    • Strengths: Sadaf has the ability to bowl tight lines and lengths, making her effective in both the powerplay and later stages of the innings.
11. Tuba Hassan
    • Role: Bowler
    • Position: Leg-spinner
    • Strengths: Tuba is a promising young spinner with the ability to take wickets in the middle overs, adding variety to the bowling lineup.

This lineup combines a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, providing a balanced team capable of competing against South Africa. The all-rounders enhance flexibility, while the bowling attack is well-rounded with both pace and spin options.

The series is expected to be closely contested, with each match likely to be a thriller. Fans can expect exciting cricket action as both teams battle it out for supremacy.

Also READ: Laura Wolvaardt sweeps top honors at Cricket South Africa Awards 2023-24

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.