- Pakistan captain joins Birmingham Phoenix after standout all-round display at Edgbaston
Birmingham: Pakistan women’s cricket captain Fatima Sana has etched her name into the history books by becoming the first Pakistani woman cricketer to be selected for The Hundred, England’s prestigious 100-ball franchise competition.
According to Beyond Time News, the 24-year-old all-rounder was drafted by Birmingham Phoenix during Thursday’s wildcard selections, securing a landmark opportunity in one of the world’s most-watched women’s cricket tournaments.
The breakthrough represents a significant moment not only for Sana but also for Pakistan women’s cricket, which continues to gain recognition on the global stage.
Landmark Achievement for Pakistan Cricket
Fatima Sana’s selection ends a long wait for Pakistani women cricketers seeking representation in The Hundred since the competition’s launch in 2021.
The Birmingham Phoenix squad had an overseas vacancy after Australian cricketer Lucy Hamilton withdrew from the tournament as part of Cricket Australia’s workload management plans. The franchise moved quickly to secure Sana, rewarding a player who has become one of Pakistan’s most influential cricketers in recent years.
The Pakistan captain is set to earn the tournament’s minimum women’s salary of £15,000, equivalent to approximately PKR 5.6 million.
While her participation may be affected by Pakistan’s upcoming tour of Sri Lanka from July 23 to August 4, her selection alone marks a major milestone for the country’s women’s game.
Selection Comes After Match-Winning Performance
The announcement came just hours after Sana produced a memorable all-round performance against South Africa at Edgbaston — the very venue she will call home during The Hundred.
Batting at number eight, she rescued Pakistan’s innings with a powerful unbeaten 55 from just 38 deliveries, displaying composure and attacking intent under pressure.
She then delivered with the ball, claiming three wickets for only 16 runs and nearly guiding Pakistan to victory before South Africa edged home by two wickets.
The performance underlined why Sana is regarded as one of the most promising all-rounders in international women’s cricket.
Her ability to influence matches with both bat and ball has made her a key figure in Pakistan’s setup and an attractive option for franchise teams seeking balance and versatility.
Third Pakistani Player in This Year’s Tournament
Sana joins a growing Pakistani contingent in The Hundred this season.
Leg-spinner Usman Tariq will also represent Birmingham Phoenix, while mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed is set to play for Sunrisers Leeds after securing a £190,000 contract during the player auction earlier this year.
The inclusion of three Pakistani players has been welcomed by fans and cricket observers, particularly after concerns that changes in franchise ownership could limit opportunities for players from Pakistan.
Instead, this year’s selections highlight the continued demand for Pakistani talent in elite franchise cricket.
Boost for Pakistan Women’s Cricket
Sana’s historic selection is expected to inspire a new generation of female cricketers across Pakistan.
Women’s cricket in the country has experienced significant growth over the past decade, with increased investment, improved domestic structures and stronger international performances helping raise standards.
As national captain, Sana has emerged as one of the faces of that progress. Her journey from a young fast-bowling prospect to an internationally recognized all-rounder reflects the growing opportunities available to women in Pakistani cricket.
Playing alongside some of the biggest names in world cricket will provide valuable experience and further enhance her development as both a player and leader.
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The Hundred’s Global Influence Continues to Grow
The Hundred has become one of cricket’s premier franchise tournaments since its introduction by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
The competition attracts leading international stars and provides a major platform for women’s cricket, offering equal visibility alongside the men’s tournament.
This year’s edition, scheduled from July 21 to August 16, will also be the first season following major investment deals that brought private ownership groups into the competition.
For Fatima Sana, the tournament presents an opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s cricketing talent on one of the sport’s biggest franchise stages.
For Pakistan women’s cricket, it is a moment of pride and a sign of how far the game has progressed.
As anticipation builds for The Hundred, all eyes will be on the Pakistan captain as she prepares to break new ground and represent her country in historic fashion.
FAQs
Why is Fatima Sana’s selection important?
Fatima Sana has become the first Pakistani woman cricketer ever selected to play in The Hundred.
Which team selected Fatima Sana?
Birmingham Phoenix signed the Pakistan captain during The Hundred wildcard draft.
How much will Fatima Sana earn?
She will receive a contract worth £15,000, approximately PKR 5.6 million.
Can Fatima Sana play the full tournament?
Her availability may be limited due to Pakistan’s scheduled tour of Sri Lanka during part of The Hundred season.
How many Pakistani players are playing in The Hundred 2026?
Three Pakistani players have secured contracts: Fatima Sana, Usman Tariq and Abrar Ahmed.
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