On August 6, 2025, Aliya Riaz steps onto the vibrant field at Castle Avenue in Dublin for a moment that many athletes dream of: her 100th T20 International appearance. At 32 years old, Aliya embodies the spirit of perseverance, and as she looks around, she knows this milestone is not just a personal triumph but also a celebration of women’s cricket in Pakistan.
This landmark event comes at a pivotal time for the Pakistan Women’s cricket team, now led by the tenacious Fatima Sana. They are gearing up to face the Irish team in a much-anticipated three-match T20I series that will run through August 10. The Irish squad, under the enthusiastic leadership of Gaby Lewis, is keen to prove their mettle against one of Pakistan’s most experienced players.
Reflecting on her journey, Aliya’s career kicked off more than a decade ago when she made her debut against Australia on August 30, 2014. The Gold Coast match was just the beginning, as she swiftly solidified her place in the middle order. Her blend of calmness and exhilaration has made her a crucial asset to the team, allowing her to thrive even in high-pressure situations.
To date, Aliya has racked up 1,142 runs from 84 innings, sporting an average of 20.39 and a striking rate of 96.69. While she has knocked out two half-centuries, her most remarkable trait lies in her ability to stabilize innings and shift momentum when it matters the most.
A standout moment in her career arrived during the 2022 Women’s Asia Cup held in Bangladesh. Aliya delivered a breathtaking innings of 57 runs off just 36 balls against the UAE, which not only won her the Player of the Match title but also showcased her talent for anchoring an innings with both intent and finesse.
But Aliya’s contributions aren’t confined to batting. She adds immense value with her bowling as well. Across 32 innings, she has claimed 20 wickets at an average of 31.50, boasting a commendable economy rate of 7.94. This ability to snare crucial wickets and control the flow of runs gives her captain strategic flexibility during critical match situations.
As Aliya dons the Pakistan jersey for her 100th appearance, she carries not just the pride of this remarkable feat but also the weight of guiding a youthful Pakistani side through this fiercely competitive series. With the support of Fatima Sana’s leadership and her vast experience, the duo creates a compelling narrative in a series against a hungry Irish team eager to showcase their prowess on home turf.
Aliya’s story mirrors the evolution of women’s cricket in Pakistan, a journey paved with grit, talent, and inspiring new role models for future generations. Her commitment—both as a batter and a bowler—has become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s competitive spirit in international T20 cricket.
As the match gets underway at Castle Avenue, all eyes will be on Aliya Riaz. This seasoned all-rounder is not just celebrating a career milestone; she’s primed to inspire her team and the watching crowd alike with her skill, experience, and undying passion for the game. We can’t wait to see what she brings to the pitch today!
Image Source: Aliya Riaz @ Instagram
