England Women's Cricket Captain Heather Knight Vows Not to Underestimate Pakistan in Upcoming Series

England women's cricket team captain Heather Knight has expressed her enthusiasm about welcoming Pakistan for a bilateral series next month, marking the first visit by the Pakistan women's team to England in eight years. The two sides are set to face off in three T20 Internationals and three One Day Internationals.

Knight acknowledged Pakistan's recent strong performances, particularly in their series against New Zealand, and emphasized that her team is fully prepared and not taking the matches lightly. "Pakistan has shown good form recently and we are not underestimating the series against them," Knight stated.

The England captain highlighted the talent within the Pakistan squad, singling out newly appointed captain Nida Dar and emerging talent Fatima Sana. Knight spoke highly of the camaraderie she shares with the Pakistani players and revealed her eagerness to visit Pakistan in the future, citing positive reviews from her teammates who have played there.

Why this matters: The upcoming series between England and Pakistan holds significance for the advancement and progress of women's cricket globally. It provides an opportunity to showcase the talent and competitiveness of both teams, while also fostering stronger cricketing ties between the two nations.

Knight also welcomed the England and Wales Cricket Board's announcement of a new three-tier first-class system for women's domestic cricket, recognizing it as a critical moment for the sport's growth and development in the country. The first match of the England-Pakistan series will be played at Edgbaston Stadium on May 11, 2024, and Knight anticipates strong support from the lively Pakistani community in Birmingham.

Looking ahead to the series, Knight expressed confidence in her team's preparations and readiness to take on the challenge posed by Pakistan. "We are fully prepared for the upcoming matches and excited to host Pakistan after such a long gap," Knight said. The England women's cricket team is determined to put on a strong performance and further solidify their position as one of the leading teams in the world.

Key Takeaways

• England women's cricket team to host Pakistan for 3 T20Is and 3 ODIs in May 2024.
• England captain Heather Knight excited to welcome Pakistan, acknowledges their recent strong form.
• Series significant for women's cricket, provides opportunity to showcase talent and foster ties.
• England to play in new 3-tier domestic first-class system, welcomed by Knight.
• Knight confident in England's preparations, expects strong support from Pakistani community in Birmingham.