Dhoni an inspiration for Pakistan captain Sana’s World Cup bid

Fatima Sana will be leading Pakistan in a World Cup for the first time in her career, and the all-rounder has revealed that she draws inspiration from none other than former India captain MS Dhoni as she prepares for the challenge.

With the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 set to begin on September 30, Sana admitted that she was initially nervous about captaining in such a high-profile event. But Dhoni's leadership qualities – calmness, decision-making and belief in his players – have provided her a model to follow.

"It is natural to be a little nervous initially when captaining in a big tournament like the World Cup, but I take inspiration from Mahendra Singh Dhoni," Sana told PTI. "I have seen his matches as India and CSK captain. His on-field decision-making, calmness and the way he backs his players, there is a lot to learn from that. When I got the captaincy, I thought that I have to become like Dhoni. I also watched his interviews and got to learn a lot."

Dhoni, who led India to the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy, is regarded as one of cricket's greatest captains. His iconic IPL career with Chennai Super Kings, where he won five titles, has only enhanced his reputation as a leader who thrives under pressure.

Pakistan, meanwhile, are still searching for consistency on the global stage. They have played in five Women's World Cups but managed just three wins overall, with their latest coming against West Indies in 2022. In the last edition, they finished bottom of the table.

Sana, who has 397 runs and 45 wickets in 34 ODIs, believes this time the team can change the narrative. "This time, the jinx will definitely be broken because the young players know how important this tournament is for Pakistan women's cricket. We will not think about the past. My goal is to take the team to the semifinals," she said.

The 23-year-old also pointed out the positive changes in Pakistan's cricketing landscape. "In Pakistan, girls have started playing cricket in schools and international matches are being telecast live. ICC has also taken a good initiative by increasing the prize money for the Women's World Cup, which will inspire budding players. But there is still a barrier which we have to break through this tournament."

Pakistan, who secured qualification with an unbeaten run in the World Cup Qualifier earlier this year, will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on October 2 in Colombo, followed by the highly-anticipated clash against India on October 5.