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The ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2025 will kick off with an exciting clash between Pakistan women and Ireland women at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Wednesday. This match marks Pakistan women’s return to competitive cricket after nearly 11 months, and they will be eager to start their campaign on a high note. Meanwhile, Ireland women will aim to adapt quickly to the conditions and put up a strong fight against their hosts. With a historical head-to-head advantage favoring Pakistan women (15 wins to 6), this encounter promises to be an intriguing battle between two determined sides.
Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Pakistan Women vs Ireland Women |
| Date | 9 April 2025 |
| Time | 8:30 AM |
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Format | One-Day International (ODI) |
Team Previews
Pakistan Women Preview
Pakistan women enter the tournament with a full-strength squad, although they will miss the experienced all-rounder Nida Dar due to injury. The batting lineup boasts several reliable performers, including Sidra Ameen, Gul Feroza, Muneeba Ali, and Aliya Riaz. Since April 2024, Muneeba Ali has been the standout batter for Pakistan, accumulating 143 runs in six matches at an average of 28.60. Captain Fatima Sana will also play a crucial role with both bat and ball, supported by bowlers like Diana Baig, Nashra Sandhu, and Syed Arooba Shah.
The team will look to capitalize on their home advantage and deliver a clinical performance in this opening fixture. Their recent struggles in international cricket mean that consistency will be key if they are to secure a victory.
Key Players: Muneeba Ali, Fatima Sana, Nashra Sandhu.
Ireland Women Preview
Ireland women face the challenge of adjusting to unfamiliar conditions as they take on the hosts. Their batting lineup is anchored by Orla Prendergast, who has been exceptional since April 2024, scoring 352 runs in 12 matches at an average of 32.00, including one century and one half-century. Other batters like Gaby Lewis, Amy Hunter, and Leah Paul will need to step up to provide support.
With the ball, Ireland relies heavily on Prendergast once again, who has claimed 13 wickets at an average of 29.30. Arlene Kelly, Jane Maguire, and Laura Delaney add depth to the bowling attack. However, their recent form suggests that they may struggle against a well-prepared Pakistani side.
Key Players: Orla Prendergast, Gaby Lewis, Arlene Kelly.
Favourite Team to Win Today’s Match
| Team | Reason |
|---|---|
| Pakistan Women | With home advantage, stronger batting depth, and better spin-bowling options, Pakistan are favorites. |
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Role | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Muneeba Ali (C) | Batsman/Wicketkeeper | PAKW |
| Sidra Ameen | Batsman | PAKW |
| Gaby Lewis | Batsman | IREW |
| Orla Prendergast | All-rounder | IREW |
| Aliya Riaz | All-rounder | PAKW |
| Fatima Sana | All-rounder | PAKW |
| Nashra Sandhu | Bowler | PAKW |
| Diana Baig | Bowler | PAKW |
| Arlene Kelly (VC) | Bowler | IREW |
| Jane Maguire | Bowler | IREW |
| Syed Arooba Shah | Bowler | PAKW |
Fantasy Team Explanation : This balanced fantasy team includes top performers from both sides. Muneeba Ali and Sidra Ameen form a solid foundation for Pakistan, while Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast bring stability for Ireland. All-rounders like Aliya Riaz and Fatima Sana add depth, and bowlers such as Nashra Sandhu, Diana Baig, and Arlene Kelly offer wicket-taking potential.
Captain and Vice-Captain Suggestions
- Captain : Muneeba Ali (PAKW)
- Vice-Captain : Arlene Kelly (IREW)
Players to Avoid
- Avoid : Sarah Forbes (IREW), Ava Cunning (IREW)
Team Squads
Pakistan Women Squad
Fatima Sana (captain), Gul Feroza (wk), Sidra Ameen, Aliya Riaz, Muneeba Ali, Shawal Zulfiqar, Omaima Sohail, Diana Baig, Nashra Sandhu, Natalia Pervaiz, Syed Arooba Shah
Ireland Women Squad
Gaby Lewis (captain), Leah Paul, Amy Hunter, Sarah Forbes, Ava Cunning, Christina Coulter-Reily, Arlene Kelly, Orla Prendergast, Jane Maguire, Laura Delaney, Alana Dalzell
Probable Playing XI
| PAKW | IREW |
|---|---|
| Fatima Sana (c) | Gaby Lewis (c) |
| Gul Feroza (wk) | Leah Paul |
| Sidra Ameen | Amy Hunter |
| Aliya Riaz | Sarah Forbes |
| Muneeba Ali | Ava Cunning |
| Shawal Zulfiqar | Christina Coulter-Reily |
| Omaima Sohail | Arlene Kelly |
| Diana Baig | Orla Prendergast |
| Nashra Sandhu | Jane Maguire |
| Natalia Pervaiz | Laura Delaney |
| Syed Arooba Shah | Alana Dalzell |
Pitch Report
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium is expected to favor batters, with high-scoring totals likely in the first innings. Spinners may come into play as the game progresses, making it crucial for both teams to balance their approach. Teams batting first should aim for a total of around 240-250 runs.
Weather Conditions
The weather forecast predicts sunny conditions with light winds throughout the day. Temperatures will range from 25°C to 43°C, ensuring uninterrupted play.
Toss Prediction
The toss-winning team is likely to bowl first, given the historical trend of successful chases at this venue.
Winner Prediction
We predict that Pakistan women will defeat Ireland women comfortably. With superior batting depth, effective spin-bowling options, and home advantage, Pakistan are the stronger team on paper.
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