The Women’s T20 World Cup is already heating up, and one of the biggest talking points is the blockbuster rivalry between Pakistan and India. Pakistan will be eager to finally break their knockout drought and make a strong push in the 10th edition of the tournament, held in England, as they look to reach the knockout stage for the very first time.
Their campaign kicks off with a high-pressure clash against India on Sunday, with Pakistan placed in a tough group alongside Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands. As they gear up for the challenge, the squad also received encouraging words from Babar Azam, who extended his support ahead of their World Cup journey.
What Did Babar Azam Say to Pakistan Women Before India Match?
Ahead of a high-pressure start to the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Edgbaston in Birmingham, Babar Azam sent a heartfelt message of support to the Pakistan women’s team. The former men’s captain took to his Instagram story, rallying behind the squad as they prepare for their opening clash against arch-rivals India, a fixture always loaded with intensity and expectation.
Sharing his message on social media, Babar wrote, “Wishing good luck to our national women’s team for #T20WorldCup. The flag of Pakistan is in your hands and the prayers of the nation are with you. Make us proud. Pakistan, it’s time to #backourgirls.”
Babar Azam’s Instagram story. 🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/icnUrlouq8
— Sheri. (@CallMeSheri1_) June 14, 2026
Can Pakistan Women Make History at Women’s T20 World Cup 2026?
Pakistan have historically found wins hard to come by in this rivalry at the World Cup stage, managing only two victories in Women’s T20 World Cup history, in 2012 and 2016. This time, they will be led by Fatima Sana, with the side entering the tournament on the back of solid preparation, including a recent tri-series featuring Ireland and West Indies. The contest against India once again brings added pressure, given the long-standing competitive history between the two sides.
Former pacer and women’s team mentor Wahab Riaz has expressed strong belief in the Fatima Sana-led squad, saying the group has been well-prepared and carries the right balance of youth and experience to compete at the highest level. He noted that the Pakistan Cricket Board is optimistic about a solid showing in the tournament, especially given the energy and skill within the side.
“We have worked hard over the past few months, playing a series against Zimbabwe and facing Ireland and the West Indies. This is a young and energetic group that can rise to the occasion at the World Cup. You prepare your entire life to play in a World Cup, and it is an opportunity everyone looks forward to. Our focus is on playing a fearless and positive brand of cricket. We need to believe in our hard work, and the results will follow,” Wahab Riaz said.
He further highlighted the strength of their group and the importance of a strong start, adding, “Our group has some of the finest sides in the tournament, and this is a good opportunity for us to start on the right track, with things getting easier as the event progresses. We have a combination of youngsters and senior players, and I am confident that, given the hard work these players have put in, if they play to their potential, they will deliver a top-four finish,” he added.
