Pakistan’s selectors have sprung a surprise by naming left-arm fast bowler Tasmia Rubab in their squad for the upcoming Women’s T20 Asia Cup. The 22-year-old is the only uncapped player in the 15-member contingent, a testament to her impressive performances in domestic tournaments.
Rubab has been knocking on the national team’s door for a while now. She impressed with her skills while representing Pakistan A against West Indies A and Thailand last year. More recently, she shone in the National Women’s One-Day Tournament, chipping in with both bat and ball. Rubab’s tally of 86 runs and 12 wickets for Multan showcased her all-round abilities. Her wicket-taking prowess continued in the National Women’s T20 Tournament, where she picked up four wickets while maintaining a decent economy rate of 6.36.
Rubab’s selection highlights the selectors’ intent to bolster the bowling attack. Her left-arm pace offers a different dimension to the attack, which already boasts experienced campaigners like Diana Baig and Nashra Sundhu. With veterans like Ayesha Zafar and Natalia Parvaiz missing out on selection, the onus will be on young players like Rubab to prove their mettle on the big stage.
The upcoming Asia Cup provides Tasmia Rubab with a golden opportunity to make a name for herself at the international level. With a training camp starting on July 5th in Karachi, she will have a chance to impress the coaching staff and potentially force her way into the playing eleven. Pakistan fans will be eager to see if the youngster can translate her domestic form into international success.
