Captain Fatima Sana says Pakistan feeling ‘no pressure’ ahead of the crucial encounter against India

Pakistan will take on India in their rematch in Dubai, hoping to build on their winning start to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.

In their first Group A match, Fatima Sana led her team to a 31-run triumph over Sri Lanka. Now, she’ll try to make it two straight wins against an India team that was defeated by New Zealand in their initial encounter on Friday.

Fatima stated, “There’s no pressure like that.” There will be some strain on the girls because of the large number of people and the particular mood.

However, we’ll make an effort to remain composed and avoid applying too much pressure. We don’t benefit when we give in to pressure.

“We’ll do our best to remain composed and manage the situation.”

Fatima, who is only 22 years old, is captaining Pakistan in its maiden World Cup play. She will also be leading her team against India in one of the most anticipated games of the competition.

She made an outstanding 30 from 20 balls against Sri Lanka, demonstrating that she lacked jitters. Pakistan dutifully protected their 116.

Due to an injury sustained by seamer Diana Baig, who is anticipated to be healthy for the match on Sunday, the all-round player also had to enter the game early to bowl. Even though the bowlers will contribute, Fatima is eager to demonstrate to the world how Pakistan’s batting has improved.

“Looking at the last series against South Africa, a lot of our girls have improved in power hitting,” the speaker continued. Our squad hit six sixes in a single match throughout that series. We scored eight sixes after that. It’s fortunate that each female feels secure in this. In the past, I batted a lot, but I wasn’t sure if I could hit or not. But now that you have that conviction, it’s much simpler.

After losing to New Zealand by 58 runs, India has to use the match against Pakistan as a springboard.

According to bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, the team has already moved over their loss against the White Ferns and their strategy won’t significantly alter.

“On Friday, whatever transpired, Sunday presents a new opportunity for us,” he declared.

“So it goes without saying that girls have experienced this previously, along with the process and the grind. All we can say to them is to maintain their strength, unity, and faith in our talents and plans, and to just get back to work.

Also Read: ‘I believed in myself and backed myself to be cool’- Fatima Sana elated on leading Pakistan to a winning start

It ultimately comes down to trusting your procedures and what has so far worked for you. Naturally, the bowling unit must continue to be strong, cohesive, and focused on overcoming their next obstacles. In the meanwhile, they simply follow what has been successful for them thus far and stick with it.