Pakistan's cricket captain Fatima Sana has been signed by Birmingham Phoenix as a wildcard pick for The Hundred, becoming the first Pakistani woman to play in the tournament.
The 24-year-old all-rounder, who leads her national side, will compete in the upcoming season starting July 21. Her selection comes after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) reminded all franchises of anti-discrimination rules, following concerns that teams linked to the Indian Premier League might exclude Pakistani players.
Fatima was among two Pakistani women unsold in the March auction, alongside spinner Sadia Iqbal. However, the ECB and franchises later issued a joint statement affirming that "players must not be excluded on grounds of nationality."
Currently playing in the Women's T20 World Cup, Fatima scored an unbeaten 55 and took 3-16 in a narrow loss to South Africa. She replaces Australian all-rounder Lucy Hamilton, who was withdrawn to manage her workload.
Wildcard picks are typically domestic players rewarded for county form, but they also fill final squad spots. A total of 32 players across men's and women's teams have been selected to complete the eight squads.
Notable other wildcards include 17-year-old fast bowler Manny Lumsden joining Southern Brave and 18-year-old Seb Morgan picked up by MI London.