Pakistan have suffered a major setback ahead of the ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026, with wicketkeeper-batter Najiha Alvi ruled out of the tournament because of a knee injury. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Sunday that medical assessments had revealed a joint issue, forcing the team management to make a late change to the squad. The tournament is scheduled to be played in Dubai from August 28 to September 13.

Replacement announced for Najiha Alvi

The PCB has named right-handed batter Sadaf Shamas as Najiha’s replacement in the Pakistan squad. Shamas brings international experience to the group, having represented Pakistan in 12 Women’s T20 Internationals since making her debut in January 2023. While Najiha’s absence is undoubtedly a blow, Pakistan will hope Shamas can make the most of the opportunity in a tournament where every match could carry significant weight. The team will also rely on Muneeba Ali as their wicketkeeping option following Najiha’s withdrawal.

Pakistan will be led by Fatima Sana, who is set to return as captain for the continental competition. The all-rounder missed Pakistan’s recent T20I series against Sri Lanka because of her commitments to The Hundred, where she represented Birmingham Phoenix. Her return provides Pakistan with an experienced leader as they prepare for a demanding Asia Cup campaign.

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Pakistan to begin campaign against Thailand

Pakistan have been placed in Group A alongside seven-time champions India, Thailand and Hong Kong-China. The group features a highly anticipated clash against India, while Pakistan will also need to be wary of the other teams if they are to progress to the knockout stage.

Pakistan will open their campaign against Thailand on September 1. Their biggest group-stage assignment will follow on September 5 when they take on arch-rivals India in what is expected to be one of the most-watched matches of the tournament. They will then face Hong Kong-China on September 7 in their final group-stage fixture.

Also READ: Sri Lanka unveil squad for Women’s Asia Cup 2026; Dewmi Vihanga earns maiden call-up

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.