Pak-WI clash in crucial ICC Women's Championship Series

Pak-WI clash in crucial ICC Women's Championship Series

By our correspondent

In a pivotal showdown, Pakistan and West Indies will lock horns in a three-match ODI series, commencing Thursday at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. The series holds significant importance as it is part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25, with crucial points at stake.

Led by skipper Nida Dar, the fifth-ranked Pakistan side, boasting 16 points, will look to consolidate their position in the championship standings. Meanwhile, Hayley Matthews will lead the ninth-ranked West Indies team, currently holding eight points. The series promises to be fiercely contested, with both teams vying to maximize their points tally and climb higher in the championship rankings.

The first ODI is scheduled to kick off on Thursday, followed by the second and third matches on April 21 and 23, respectively. The matches on Thursday and Sunday will commence at 0930 local time, while Tuesday’s encounter will start at 3.30 pm.

Cricket enthusiasts can catch all the action live on Geo Super, with live streaming available on ZAP, Tamasha, and Tapmad. Moreover, entry to the National Bank Stadium is free, allowing fans to witness the excitement firsthand from the Javed Miandad Enclosure.

With both teams geared up for a fierce battle on the field, cricket aficionados can anticipate thrilling contests and high-octane performances throughout the series.

As Pakistan and West Indies brace for their series, captains Nida Dar and Hayley Matthews express their anticipation and readiness for the cricketing showdown.

Nida Dar, leading the Pakistan women’s team, emphasizes the team's diligent preparation for the series, recognizing its significance in their quest for direct qualification to the ICC Women's World Cup. Dar highlights the intensity of their training camp, acknowledging the meticulous efforts of their coaches in honing skills and enhancing fitness levels. Despite West Indies' historical prowess in ODIs, Dar asserts Pakistan's recent form and determination to maintain their winning momentum against formidable opposition.

Meanwhile, Hayley Matthews, at the helm of the West Indies women’s team, acknowledges Pakistan's formidable presence on their home ground. Matthews acknowledges Pakistan's talent and resilience, emphasizing the team's readiness for the challenge. Following a productive training camp in Dubai, Matthews expresses confidence in her team's ability to execute their game plan and adapt to local conditions for a successful series.

The series promises compelling cricketing battles, with both teams poised to deliver top-notch performances and vie for crucial ICC Women’s Championship points. With high stakes and competitive spirit, cricket enthusiasts can expect riveting contests as Pakistan and West Indies collide on the field.

Adding to the excitement, Australia’s Claire Polosak will officiate as the on-field umpire for all three ODIs, accompanied by a team of proficient umpires to ensure fair play and smooth conduct of the matches. With the stage set and anticipation mounting, cricket aficionados await the thrilling action that awaits in this highly anticipated series.

The three ODIs will be followed by five T20Is from 26 April to 3 May.

Squads:

Pakistan (ODIs only): Nida Dar (captain), Aliya Riaz, Bismah Maroof, Diana Baig, Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, Najiha Alvi (wk), Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz (wk), Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani and Waheeda Akhtar

West Indies - Hayley Matthews (captain), Shemaine Campbelle (vice-captain), Aaliyah Alleyne, Afy Fletcher, Chedean Nation, Cherry Ann Fraser, Chinelle Henry, Jannillea Glasgow, Karishma Ramharack, Kate Wilmott, Qiana Joseph, Rashada Williams, Shamilia Connell, Stafanie Taylor and Zaida James

Series schedule (ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25, all matches at National Bank Stadium):

18 April – First ODI (0930am local time)

21 April – Second ODI (0930am local time)

23 April – Third ODI (1530 local time)