Fatima Sana Eyes Top-Order Spot
Fatima Sana, Pakistan’s captain, revealed on October 6th, 2024, that she is open to moving up the batting order as the team evaluates potential tactical changes following their recent six-wicket loss to India in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Pakistan’s batting has faced inconsistencies, and the top order has struggled to provide solid starts. Sana’s desire to take on a more prominent batting role could be a crucial adjustment to strengthen the lineup.
The recent loss exposed Pakistan’s lack of power hitting at the top. Muneeba Ali scored 17 runs and was the only batter who looked comfortable against the Indian bowlers. The remaining top-order batters faltered, putting extra pressure on the middle and lower order to salvage the innings. Despite Nida Dar’s effort of 28 runs, the team managed only 105/8, a total that fell short of defending against the Indian chase.
Fatima Sana believes a change in the batting order could be the key to addressing these challenges. She mentioned that senior players need to take responsibility, but at the same time, the team management should be open to experimentation. When asked about her potential promotion, she confirmed, “I’m ready to bat higher if the team needs me to. It’s all about doing what’s best for the team’s success.”
The match against India showcased Fatima Sana versatility. She played a quick cameo, scoring 13 runs off just eight balls, then excelled with the ball, taking two wickets in consecutive deliveries to almost turn the game in Pakistan’s favor. However, despite her efforts, India managed to reach the target comfortably.
With two matches remaining in the group stage against strong teams like Australia and New Zealand, Pakistan is considering tactical shifts to keep their semifinal hopes alive. Fatima Sana promotion could mean she takes on a stabilizing role in the top order, allowing more aggressive batters to follow. Alternatively, the team could try a power-hitter at the top to utilize the powerplay better, which has been an area of concern.
Pakistan’s captain pointed out that while there is no talent, execution under pressure is lacking. “We are practicing hard, and everyone is motivated. But small mistakes cost us dearly in such high-stake games,” she remarked in the post-match conference.
The decision to change the batting order will be crucial as Pakistan gears up for their next encounter against defending champions Australia. Australia has a formidable bowling attack, and starting strong will be essential. Fatima Sana experience and calm approach might be what Pakistan needs to avoid early collapses.
The key performers for Pakistan will have to step up. Muneeba Ali and Nida Dar have shown glimpses of form, but consistency is required. If Fatima Sana does move up the order, it could provide the stability Pakistan’s batting needs.
Here quick look at how Fatima Sana has performed in her recent outings,
| Match | Runs Scored | Wickets Taken | Role |
|---|
| Pakistan vs India (Oct 6, 2024) | 13 (8 balls) | 2 wickets | Captain, All-rounder |
| Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (Oct 3, 2024) | 20 (15 balls) | 1 wicket | Lower-order Batter |
| Pakistan vs New Zealand (Warm-up) | 10 (6 balls) | 3 wickets | Finisher, Bowler |
Fatima Sana willingness to adapt and lead from the front has been a positive for Pakistan. However, her promotion will put her under more pressure to perform with the bat. If she succeeds, it could be a masterstroke that revitalizes Pakistan’s campaign.
With Australia and New Zealand waiting, the next few days will be critical for Pakistan’s World Cup journey. The management will likely make a final call after assessing training sessions and discussing strategies with the players. For now, all eyes are on whether Fatima Sana will take up the challenge and move into a role that could change the course of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup run.
