Pakistan have named their 14-member squad for the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026, with wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali appointed as captain for the tournament in Ajman, UAE, scheduled for November. Muneeba takes over the leadership role in the absence of regular captain Fatima Sana, who will be unavailable due to her commitments with Perth Scorchers in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).
The appointment presents Muneeba with another opportunity to lead the side internationally, having previously captained the team during the T20I leg of their Sri Lanka tour earlier this year. Batter Ayesha Zafar has been appointed vice-captain, joining a squad that blends seasoned performers with rising talents.
Muneeba Ali to captain Pakistan in Fatima Sana’s absence
Muneeba’s selection marks the second instance in 2026 where she has assumed the captaincy while Fatima is engaged with franchise cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter previously led Pakistan in the T20I series against Sri Lanka in July, when Sana was representing Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. As the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy approaches, Muneeba is expected to steer the team through another significant challenge. Her experience as an international cricketer and prior exposure to leadership duties may prove crucial as Pakistan seek to compete strongly in the competition.
The tournament also represents Muneeba’s return to competitive cricket after missing the Asian Games for personal reasons. Her inclusion not only enhances Pakistan’s batting strength but also brings back a player familiar with the responsibilities of leading the national side.
Ayesha Zafar named vice-captain as Pakistan make squad changes
Pakistan have made several adjustments to the squad that competed at the Asian Games. All-rounder Aliya Riaz and fast bowler Humna Bilal have been omitted, while Ayesha Zafar has been given the vice-captaincy. Waheeda Akhtar and Sadaf Shamas have also secured spots in the squad after being absent from the Asian Games. Both players had previously featured in Pakistan’s Women’s Asia Cup campaign prior to that event.
Besides Fatima’s absence and the modifications concerning Aliya Riaz and Humna Bilal, the chosen group largely mirrors the lineup from the Asia Cup. The management has thus opted to maintain consistency while implementing a few tactical changes ahead of the upcoming tournament. The blend of experienced players and emerging talent could provide Pakistan with a well-rounded unit for the competition. With Muneeba leading and Ayesha as her deputy, the leadership pair will be tasked with maintaining team discipline and coordination throughout the event.
Pakistan Squad for Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026: Muneeba Ali (captain), Ayesha Zafar (vice-captain), Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Momina Riasat, Nashra Sundhu, Sadaf Shamas, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani and Waheeda Akhtar.
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