Muneeba Ali leaves Asian Games 2026 camp due to mother’s illness

Pakistan women’s wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali has withdrawn from the Asian Games 2026 women’s cricket event and returned home after her mother fell ill.

Muneeba travelled back to Pakistan from Dubai following the conclusion of the Asia Cup, while the rest of the national squad continued its journey to Japan for the Asian Games.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided not to call up a replacement because of the limited time available and the tight schedule of the knockout stage, which is due to be completed by September 22.

In Muneeba’s absence, Gull Feroza will take over wicketkeeping duties and is also expected to open Pakistan’s batting.

Feroza has already performed the dual role during Pakistan’s recent quarter-final against Thailand, giving the team management an option that does not require major changes to the playing combination.

Pakistan secured a place in the Asian Games semi-finals after defeating Thailand by three wickets in a rain-affected quarter-final.

The victory came in a difficult contest in which interruptions due to weather added pressure to both sides. Pakistan eventually held its nerve to complete the chase and move into the last four.

The national team will now face Sri Lanka in the semi-final on September 20, with a place in the gold-medal match at stake.

Muneeba’s departure is a setback for Pakistan, given her role behind the stumps and at the top of the batting order. However, the decision to retain the existing squad means the team can focus on the knockout stage without waiting for a replacement player to join the tournament.

Feroza will consequently have increased responsibility in the coming matches, particularly with both wicketkeeping and opening duties on her shoulders.

Pakistan’s women’s cricket team entered the Asian Games after the Asia Cup, where the players had already faced a demanding schedule. The tournament in Japan now presents another opportunity for the side to compete for a major international title.

For Muneeba, the immediate priority will be returning home to be with her ailing mother. The Pakistan team, meanwhile, will continue its Asian Games campaign against Sri Lanka on September 20.