Pakistan women’s cricket is in turmoil just months before the 2026 Women’s ODI World Cup, as a full-blown captaincy crisis grips the team and throws their World Cup preparations into disarray. According to sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), uncertainty over who will lead the side has led to tensions in the dressing room, with senior players and board officials locked in a heated tug-of-war over the next captain.
The crisis erupted after current captain Bismah Maroof reportedly informed the PCB that she is considering stepping down from the ODI role to focus on family and a potential stint in coaching after the World Cup cycle. Maroof, who has been the face of Pakistan women’s cricket for nearly a decade, is said to have lost confidence in her ability to juggle leadership responsibilities with personal commitments.
With Maroof’s future in doubt, the PCB has been scrambling to identify a successor, but insiders say there is no clear consensus. Veteran batter Javeria Khan, who previously captained the side, is seen by some board members as a safe pair of hands, while others favor the bold move of handing the reins to young sensation Ayesha Naseem, whose fearless batting has made her a rising star.
A senior PCB official confirmed the dilemma, stating, “There are conflicting opinions at every level of the board. Some want stability and experience with Javeria, while others believe it’s time for fresh leadership with Ayesha. The situation has created divisions within the management and uncertainty among the players.”
The drama has spilled over onto social media, where fans are fiercely debating the merits of each candidate under hashtags like #PakistanWomenCaptain and #WC2026Captain. Former players have also chimed in: ex-skipper Sana Mir warned that prolonged indecision could destabilize the team’s World Cup preparations, while others urged the PCB to make a swift announcement to restore focus and morale.
Adding fuel to the fire, rumors have surfaced of rifts in the dressing room, with some senior players reportedly unhappy about the possibility of a teenager leading the side. Meanwhile, Ayesha Naseem’s supporters argue she represents the future and has the fearlessness to take Pakistan deep into the tournament.
As the countdown to the Women’s ODI World Cup 2026 continues, the PCB’s decision in the coming weeks could make or break Pakistan’s campaign. Will they opt for experience or gamble on youthful aggression? The cricketing world is watching closely.