DAMBULLA: Pakistan’s women’s cricket team showcased a dominant performance as they secured a commanding 9-wicket victory over Nepal in their second match of the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024, played in Dambulla, Sri Lanka on Sunday.
After a disappointing start to their campaign with a loss against India, Pakistan bounced back strongly, asserting their superiority over Nepal in all aspects of the game.
Opting to field first after winning the toss, Pakistan’s captain Nida Dar’s decision paid dividends immediately as her bowlers restricted Nepal to a modest total of 108/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Sadia Iqbal led the bowling attack with figures of 2 wickets for 19 runs, supported by Fatima Sana who claimed 1 wicket for 24 runs. Additionally, three Nepali batters were dismissed via run-outs.
In response, Pakistan’s batting lineup delivered a clinical performance, chasing down the target of 109 runs in just 11.5 overs with 9 wickets in hand. Gul Feroza was the star of the show, smashing 57 runs off 35 deliveries, including 10 boundaries. Muneeba Ali provided solid support with an unbeaten 46 runs.
Gul Feroza’s aggressive innings set the tone early on, putting Nepal’s bowlers under pressure from the outset. Her partnership with Muneeba Ali ensured Pakistan’s victory was achieved comfortably and swiftly.
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With this win, Pakistan opened their account in the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024, after suffering an initial setback against India. Nepal, on the other hand, faced their first defeat following a historic maiden win against United Arab Emirates (UAE) earlier in the tournament.
Next, Pakistan will take on UAE in their third and final group match scheduled for Tuesday, aiming to secure their place in the tournament’s knockout stages.
