DUBAI: New Zealand secured a commanding 54-run victory over Pakistan in the 19th match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup at the Dubai International Stadium on Monday, ending Pakistan’s hopes of progressing to the semi-finals.
The Green Shirts were bowled out for 56 runs in response to a 111-run target set by New Zealand. The loss saw Pakistan bow out of the tournament, while New Zealand advanced to the semi-final stage.
Despite a strong bowling performance, which restricted New Zealand to 110 runs for the loss of six wickets, Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled.
Skipper Fatima Sana’s return to the team, following her brief absence due to the passing of her father, inspired Pakistan’s bowling effort. Nashra Sandhu led the attack, taking three wickets for 18 runs, with Omaima Sohail, Nida Dar, and Sadia Iqbal each contributing a wicket.
However, Pakistan’s batting performance faltered from the outset. The side lost six wickets in the first 10 overs, including the experienced Nida Dar.
Only two Pakistani batters managed to reach double figures—Muneeba Ali (15 off 11) and captain Fatima Sana (21 off 23). Four players, including opener Aliya Riaz, were dismissed without scoring.
New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr proved instrumental, taking three wickets, while Eden Carson claimed two. Rosemary Mair, Lea Tahuhu, and Fran Jonas took one wicket each, helping New Zealand wrap up the game efficiently.
Earlier, New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat, posting 110 runs. Suzie Bates top-scored for the Kiwis with 28 off 29 balls, supported by Brooke Halliday’s 22 and skipper Sophie Devine’s 19.
While Pakistan’s bowlers put on a valiant display, their batters failed to rise to the occasion, ending the team’s journey in the mega tournament.
Pakistan Playing XI
Muneeba Ali, Sidra Amin, Nida Dar, Sadaf Shamas, Aliya Riaz, Fatima Sana (captain), Iram Javed, Nashra Sandhu, Sadia Iqbal, Omaima Sohail, and Syeda Aroob Shah.
New Zealand Playing XI
Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devin (captain), Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze, Rosemary Mair, Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson, and Fran Jonas.
