Pakistan make forced change days ahead of Women's Asia Cup 2026

Pakistan's wicketkeeper‑batter Najiha Alvi has been ruled out of the upcoming ACC Women's Asia Cup with a knee injury. Top‑order batter Sadaf Shamas has replaced Alvi in Pakistan's squad for the continental event. Shamas has played 12 T20Is, aggregating 61 runs at a strike rate of 70.93.

Alvi complained of pain in her posterior left knee, and subsequent scans revealed a possible sprain. The PCB medical team has advised her to undergo rehabilitation, which may last up to four weeks. The national women's selection committee believes Shamas can add depth to Pakistan's batting.

Pakistan have been grouped alongside arch‑rivals India, Hong Kong and Thailand. They will begin their campaign against Thailand women on September 1. Pakistan are still searching for their maiden Asia Cup title. India are the most successful team in the history of the tournament, having claimed seven titles. Sri Lanka are the defending champions, having beaten India by eight wickets in the final of the previous edition in 2024.

Pakistan squad for Women's Asia Cup

Fatima Sana (capt), Ayesha Zafar, Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Momina Riasat, Muneeba Ali (wk), Nashra Sandhu, Sadia Iqbal, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, Waheeda Akhtar, Sadaf Shamas

Reserves: Tasmia Rubab, Humna Bilal, Maham Anees

Women's T20 Asia Cup 2026 schedule