‘It is every player’s dream’: Eyman Fatima on brink of Pakistan debut

In a country where cricket dreams are often born in narrow streets and dusty playgrounds, Eyman Fatima’s journey from Sargodha to the national stage is a powerful story of passion, perseverance, and possibility.

At just 20, she is already making waves in Pakistan’s women’s cricket circuit—an emerging all-rounder with a commanding batting presence and a growing list of achievements.

A girl with a bat and a dream

Growing up in Sargodha, Eyman did not have access to elite academies or professional coaches. What she did have was an unwavering love for cricket.

“I used to play with boys outside my house or on the local ground. But for girls, there was no proper cricket setup. Even going out to play was a challenge,” she said talking exclusively to Nukta.

In a place where societal norms often limit girls' mobility, Eyman’s story could have ended before it began. But her family’s support made all the difference. “Everyone in my family was passionate about me playing cricket. They encouraged me at every step,” she said.

A bold move to Lahore

Recognizing her potential and determination, Eyman’s family took a brave step—relocating from Sargodha to Lahore, where she joined the Abdul Qadir Cricket Academy. There, she received formal training and began her transformation from a tape-ball enthusiast to a technically sound cricketer.

Like many in Pakistan, Eyman’s earliest cricketing idol was Shahid Afridi. “I was obsessed with his batting," she said. "I used to watch his matches and try to hit big shots like him. I haven’t met him yet, but I hope to one day.”

Rising through the ranks

Eyman quickly rose through the domestic ranks, first representing her district, then joining Central Punjab Women Under-19s, a breeding ground for future internationals. Her aggressive stroke play, sharp cricketing intelligence, and ability to rotate strike set her apart from her peers.

She soon found herself playing for top domestic sides, including PCB Strikers, Amazons, Lahore Women, and Conquerors, gaining invaluable experience in Pakistan’s growing women’s T20 landscape.

Her breakthrough came in May 2025, when she finished as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the National Women’s T20 Championship—scoring 287 runs at a phenomenal strike rate of over 155.

Making her mark globally

Eyman’s most defining moment to date came during the inaugural ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in 2023, where she was Pakistan’s top scorer. With 157 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 126.61 and an average of 52.33, she ranked fourth overall in the tournament’s run charts.

This performance placed her firmly on the radar of national selectors and fans alike.

National Recognition and the Road to Ireland

In 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) introduced a new ‘E’ category—Emerging Players—for nurturing young talent. Eyman was selected alongside fellow young cricketer Shawaal Zulfiqar, a testament to her promise and performance.

Her dreams came full circle when she was named in the national squad for the tour of Ireland. “It’s every player’s dream to wear the Pakistan jersey. I’ve worked so hard for this, and my family is overjoyed. It’s a big honour.”

During the training camp in Karachi, she and her teammates worked under top coaches to sharpen their skills and team strategy. “We’ve trained intensely. The whole team is hopeful that we’ll return with a series win.”

The bigger picture: Women’s cricket rising

Eyman sees a brighter future for women’s cricket in Pakistan.

“The facilities have improved a lot," she said. "The way we performed in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers is a positive sign. We’re getting more domestic tournaments, more matches—and more chances.”

The PCB’s efforts to expand the domestic structure and invest in leagues have created opportunities for girls like Eyman to dream bigger and aim higher.

Eyman is more than just an emerging cricketer—she is a symbol of possibility for girls across Pakistan. Her journey proves that with talent, hard work, and the right support, even the most distant dreams can come true. And for Eyman, this is just the beginning.