Pakistan have announced their 14-member squad for the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026.

Wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali has been appointed as captain for the tournament.

Pakistan have announced 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, in November. Muneeba will take charge in the absence of regular skipper Fatima Sana, who will be unavailable because of her commitments with Perth Scorchers in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).

The appointment gives Muneeba another opportunity to lead Pakistan on the international stage, having previously captained the side during the T20I leg of their Sri Lanka tour earlier this year. Batter Ayesha Zafar has been named vice-captain, while the squad features a combination of established players and younger talents.

Muneeba Ali to captain Pakistan in Fatima Sana’s absence

Muneeba’s appointment marks the second time in 2026 that she has stepped into the captaincy role while Fatima is occupied 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. With the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy approaching, Muneeba will be expected to guide the team through another important assignment. Her experience as an international player and familiarity with the leadership responsibilities could prove valuable as Pakistan aim to make an impact in the competition.

The tournament will also mark Muneeba’s return after she missed the Asian Games because of personal reasons. Her inclusion strengthens Pakistan’s batting options while bringing back a player who has already experienced the responsibility of captaining the national side.

Ayesha Zafar named vice-captain as Pakistan make squad changes

Pakistan have made a few adjustments to the squad that represented the country at the Asian Games. All-rounder Aliya Riaz and fast bowler Humna Bilal have been left out, while Ayesha Zafar has been entrusted with the vice-captaincy. Waheeda Akhtar and Sadaf Shamas have also earned places in the squad after missing the Asian Games. Both players were part of Pakistan’s Women’s Asia Cup squad before the continental competition.

Apart from Fatima’s absence and the changes involving Aliya Riaz and Humna Bilal, the selected group largely retains the combination that featured in the Asia Cup. The management has therefore opted to maintain continuity while making a handful of changes for the upcoming assignment. The presence of experienced campaigners alongside emerging players could help Pakistan build a competitive unit for the tournament. With Muneeba at the helm and Ayesha serving as her deputy, the leadership group will be responsible for keeping the side organised throughout the competition.

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.

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