Perth: Pakistan women’s cricket captain Fatima Sana has signed a one year contract with Perth Scorchers, becoming only the second Pakistani player to join Australia’s Women’s Big Bash League.
The club announced the signing on Saturday, confirming that the 24 year old will be available for its first eight matches of the competition’s 12th edition, which starts on October 29.
Her participation beyond those fixtures depends on permission from the Pakistan Cricket Board to miss a national training camp ahead of Pakistan’s expected tour of the West Indies in December.
Fatima follows former Pakistan captain Nida Dar, who played 11 matches for Sydney Thunder during the 2019 season.
The Scorchers deal also gives Fatima her second overseas T20 league opportunity this year, following her appearance for Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred.
Speaking about the signing, Fatima said she had followed the Australian competition from Pakistan and hoped to experience it as a player. She described joining Perth and playing at the WACA Ground, with support from fans in Australia and back home, as the fulfilment of a longstanding ambition.
A right arm pace bowler and middle order batter, Fatima made her international debut in 2019. She has since played more than 130 white ball internationals for Pakistan, combining her national captaincy with contributions in both batting and bowling.
Perth Scorchers general manager Kade Harvey welcomed her arrival, highlighting her standing among the game’s promising young all rounders.
The move offers Fatima another opportunity to compete in an overseas franchise environment, while her availability will remain linked to Pakistan’s international preparations.
