Fatima Sana has made history by becoming the first Pakistani woman to participate in The Hundred, having been signed by Birmingham Phoenix as a wildcard pick.

The 24-year-old all-rounder, who also serves as the captain of the Pakistan women's cricket team, is set to compete in this year's tournament, which begins on 21 July.

This landmark decision comes after a period of uncertainty. Earlier in February, reports indicated that franchises linked to the Indian Premier League were unlikely to sign Pakistani players, reflecting a longstanding trend in the IPL.

In response to this situation, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) took steps to ensure inclusivity. They sent a reminder to all eight franchises regarding their responsibilities under anti-discrimination policies.

Subsequently, the ECB and the teams issued a joint statement emphasizing that "players must not be excluded on the grounds of nationality." This move highlights a commitment to diversity and fairness in cricket, paving the way for more players like Fatima Sana to showcase their talents on international platforms.