Aichi-Nagoya, September 18, 2026: Pakistan women’s cricket team captain Fatima Sana has expressed her delight at being named one of Pakistan’s two flag-bearers for the Asian Games 2026, describing the honour as an opportunity to represent the country on the international stage.
Fatima will carry the national flag alongside rising squash player Noor Zaman at the opening ceremony of the 20th Asian Games, scheduled to take place in Aichi-Nagoya on September 19.
The 24-year-old cricketer, who is currently leading Pakistan in the women’s cricket competition at the Games, said she was grateful for the opportunity and would strive to make the most of the honour.
“Alhamdulillah that I have got this opportunity. Serving Pakistan in any capacity is a matter of honour, and there is no greater honour than to carry the Pakistan flag and represent Pakistan in the world,” Fatima said in a video released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
“I think it is a good opportunity for me as well. I will try to enjoy this as much as I can and continue to serve Pakistan in the same way and work harder so that Pakistan’s name goes up,” she added.
According to the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), 246 Pakistani athletes from 23 disciplines, including cricket, squash, hockey, athletics and esports, will compete at the Games, which will continue until October 4.
The women’s cricket competition began before the official opening ceremony, with all four semi-finalists already confirmed.
Pakistan secured a place in the semi-finals after defeating Thailand in a rain-affected quarter-final on Thursday. The Green Shirts will face Sri Lanka in the first semi-final at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on Sunday.
