Pakistan Cricket Teams Unite in Leeds Ahead of Crucial Matches
In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, the Pakistan women’s cricket squad met with the national men’s cricket team during a meet-and-greet event at a hotel in Leeds, England, on Sunday.
The gathering saw prominent figures from both teams, including Captain Babar Azam, Senior Manager Wahab Riaz, and star pacer Shaheen Afridi, who offered their encouragement and best wishes to the women players for their remaining matches on the England tour.
All-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed, women’s team skipper Nida Dar, and fast bowler Mohammad Amir were among the notable attendees, sharing moments of motivation and support.
The event highlighted the unity and mutual respect between the men’s and women’s teams, showcasing the spirit of Pakistani cricket.
The Pakistan women’s cricket team is set to face England today (Sunday) in the third T20I match at Headingley Cricket Ground in Leeds. Despite their recent challenges, including a defeat in the second T20I on May 17 where England secured the series 2-0, the women are determined to finish strong. In that match, England posted a total of 144-6, with contributions from Maia Bouchier (30), Alice Capsey (31), and Nat Sciver-Brunt (31).
Pakistan’s Nida Dar led the bowling effort with 2/33, supported by Waheeda Akhtar, Diana Baig, and Fatima Sana, each taking a wicket.
However, Pakistan’s batting lineup struggled, collapsing to 79 in 15.5 overs, falling 65 runs short of their target.
England’s spinners, particularly Sophie Ecclestone, who took three wickets for 11 runs, Capsey with two for four, and Sarah Glenn with two for 10, dominated the innings. Capsey’s all-round performance earned her the player of the match title.
As Leeds prepares to host the final T20I today, the Pakistan women’s team is focused on delivering a strong performance to conclude their tour.
Simultaneously, the Pakistan men’s cricket team is gearing up for their first match in a four-match T20I series against England at the same venue on May 22.
The men’s team, inspired by their interaction with the women’s squad, is eager to start their series with a victory.
This meeting between the two teams symbolizes the strength and unity of Pakistani cricket, motivating both squads to strive for excellence in their respective matches.