The South Africa Women’s cricket team touched down in Lahore today, setting the stage for a highly anticipated three-match ODI series against Pakistan Women at Gaddafi Stadium. Scheduled for September 16, 19, and 22, the series serves as a critical preparation for both teams ahead of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, starting later this month in India and Sri Lanka.
Match Schedule and Media Details
The ODIs will commence at 3:30 PM PKT, with the toss at 3:00 PM each match day. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has outlined the following schedule for media and training:
-
September 15: Captains Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa) and Fatima Sana (Pakistan) will address the media at a pre-series press conference at 6:30 PM PKT at Gaddafi Stadium’s Iqbal End press hall, followed by a trophy photoshoot.
-
September 16, 19, 22: Post-match interviews with standout performers will be facilitated by the PCB after each ODI.
-
September 18, 21: Both teams will hold training sessions at 6:30 PM PKT, open for media visuals only.
-
September 17, 20: No training or media commitments are scheduled.
Teams Gear Up for World Cup
Pakistan, led by 23-year-old all-rounder Fatima Sana, are coming off an unbeaten run in the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier earlier this year. The squad, featuring six World Cup debutants like Eyman Fatima and Sadia Iqbal, completed a 14-day training camp under head coach Muhammad Wasim. Sana, a key performer with 397 runs and 45 wickets in 34 ODIs, will rely on spinners like Nashra Sundhu to exploit Lahore’s spin-friendly pitches.
South Africa, captained by Laura Wolvaardt, bring a balanced squad with stars like Marizanne Kapp and Tazmin Brits. Fresh from a training camp in Durban, the Proteas aim to adapt to subcontinental conditions, having reached the semi-finals in the 2023 World Cup. Kapp’s all-round prowess and Wolvaardt’s batting will be crucial against Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Series Significance
This series marks South Africa’s first women’s ODI tour to Pakistan since 2019 and is a vital tune-up for the World Cup. Pakistan, set to play their group-stage matches in Sri Lanka, will face tough opponents like India and Australia. South Africa, meanwhile, look to build momentum on subcontinental wickets. Historically, South Africa lead the head-to-head with 13 wins to Pakistan’s 10 in 24 ODIs, with one tie.
The matches will be broadcast live on PTV Sports in Pakistan, with global streaming details available via PCB and Cricket South Africa (CSA) platforms. Fans can follow live updates on the PCB website.
With the World Cup looming, both teams are eager to test their lineups and strategies. Pakistan’s home advantage and spin-heavy attack will challenge South Africa’s experienced batting order, while the Proteas’ pace bowlers could test Pakistan’s middle order. The series promises competitive cricket and a glimpse of emerging talents ahead of the global tournament.
