KEY POINTS
- Pakistan clinch series 3-2 with decisive six-wicket win in final T20.
- Barirah Saif’s 3-16 spearheads bowling attack to restrict Bangladesh to 84.
- Middle-order partnerships recover chase from early setbacks to seal victory.
COX’S BAZAR, BANGLADESH: Displaying resilience under pressure, Pakistan’s Women’s U19 team secured a thrilling 3-2 series victory after defeating Bangladesh by six wickets in the decisive fifth T20 here on Friday.
Faced with a modest target of 85, Pakistan’s chase began shakily as they lost both openers early. However, a crucial 37-run partnership between Komal Khan (25) and Aqsa Habib (21) steadied the innings.
Fizza Fiaz then provided a brisk, match-winning finish, remaining unbeaten on 18 from just 14 balls to guide her side home with three overs to spare. Captain Eman Naseer was named Player of the Series for her consistent contributions with the bat.
The foundation for victory was laid by a dominant bowling performance. Opting to field first, Pakistan’s attack dismantled the Bangladesh lineup, reducing them to 31 for 5.
Pacer Barirah Saif, adjudged Player of the Match, spearheaded the effort with figures of 3 for 16, supported by Rozina Akram’s 2 for 16. Bangladesh were bowled out for 84 in 19.1 overs, with only Sadia Akter (27) offering significant resistance.
The victory marks an impressive comeback for Pakistan, who trailed 2-1 after the first three matches before winning the final two encounters to clinch the series.
Match Summary
5th T20 – Pakistan Women’s U19 beat Bangladesh Women’s U19 by six wickets at Cox’s Bazar Academy Ground
Bangladesh 84 all out, 19.1 overs (Sadia Akter 27, Barirah Saif 3-16, Rozina Akram 2-16)
Pakistan 85-4, 17 overs (Komal Khan 25, Aqsa Habib 21, Fizza Fiaz 18 not out)
Player of the match – Barirah Saif (Pakistan Women’s U19)
Player of the series – Eman Naseer (Pakistan Women’s U19)
Series results
1st T20 – 3 December – Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 13 runs
2nd T20 – 5 December – Bangladesh beat Pakistan by three wickets
3rd T20 – 7 December – Bangladesh beat Pakistan by seven wickets
4th T20 – 10 December – Pakistan beat Bangladesh by six wickets
5th T20 – 12 December – Pakistan beat Bangladesh by six wickets
