Pakistan women’s team clarifies stance on Women’s World Cup participation
Amid growing tensions and speculation following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Pakistan’s women’s team opener has made it unequivocally clear that they have no plans to play in India for the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup.
“We know this much that we will play in Asian conditions and we are not playing in India. This is clear. Neither are we interested in playing in India,” she stated, putting an end to swirling rumors and social media debates regarding Pakistan’s participation.
Diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan have deteriorated further following the Pahalgam terrorist attack earlier this month. The attack, for which responsibility was claimed by The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, has intensified the already strained atmosphere. Feroza’s response regarding the World Cup venue came in the wake of this attack, further reflecting the heightened sensitivities between the two nations.
Neeraj Chopra caught in crossfire of controversy
Even Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra found himself drawn into controversy. Chopra had earlier invited reigning Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem from Pakistan to participate in his exclusive tournament, the NC Classic. The invitation had been extended before the Pahalgam attack. However, following the incident, Chopra faced significant backlash and criticism from fans on social media. Meanwhile, Nadeem also declined the invitation, citing prior commitments.
The Indian men’s team also refrained from traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy this year, with their matches, including the final, being shifted to Dubai — further emphasizing the complex geopolitical environment impacting cricket relations between the two countries.
Focus shifts to alternative venues for Women’s World Cup
Instead of India, the Pakistan women’s team is eyeing alternative venues such as Sri Lanka or Dubai, ensuring their preparations remain focused on familiar Asian conditions.
“So, wherever it is played — hopefully in Sri Lanka or Dubai — those conditions are similar to the ones you get in Asia. The Qualifiers were at home, and the staff prepared tracks accordingly. Wherever the World Cup games are played, the conditions will be similar to those we have at home. So, our preparation will be according to that, and we are ready for that,” Feroza added.
Strategic preparation for Women’s World Cup underway
Pakistan’s emphasis on training in conditions similar to those found across the Asian region underlines their commitment to being fully prepared, regardless of the final venue. The focus remains on adaptability and readiness, ensuring that the political backdrop does not distract from their ultimate goal: performing strongly at the Women’s World Cup.
The clarity offered by the team’s opener reinforces Pakistan’s position amid the ongoing diplomatic sensitivities, providing a clear path forward as the tournament approaches.
Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
