LAHORE: Pakistan Women’s team mentor Wahab Riaz has laid out a comprehensive vision for the future of women’s cricket, placing strong emphasis on fitness, exposure, and mental conditioning.
Speaking ahead of the home series against Zimbabwe, the former fast bowler described the tour as a crucial stepping stone for the national side. Wahab underscored the need for a domestic Women’s T20 League, arguing that such a platform would not only strengthen the local circuit but also prepare players for international challenges. He further encouraged participation in overseas leagues, stressing that exposure to diverse playing conditions is vital for growth.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the Zimbabwe series, Wahab noted that the ODIs carry valuable ICC Championship points, while the T20s will serve as preparation for the T20 World Cup in England. He identified fitness and fielding as key areas requiring improvement, but expressed optimism after recent training camps in Karachi and Lahore showed encouraging progress.
Addressing the mental side of the game, Wahab pointed out that limited international exposure often hampers decision-making under pressure. The management, he said, is now focusing on building self-belief and game awareness to help players adapt to high-stakes situations.
Looking ahead to the World Cup, Wahab dismissed concerns about “tough groups,” reminding that in the T20 format, any team can beat another on their day. His message was clear: Pakistan’s women cricketers must embrace fearless cricket and align themselves with modern demands of the game.
The Zimbabwe Women’s team will make their first-ever tour of Pakistan, with the series opener scheduled for May 4, 2026. For Wahab and the national side, this series is more than just a contest — it is a chance to redefine the trajectory of women’s cricket in Pakistan.
