Pakistan notched a convincing 31-run win over Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in a closely contested T20 World Cup 2024 match at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on October 3.
Pakistan off to a winning start in Women's T20 World Cup
Despite being a low-scoring encounter, the match showcased a brilliant all-round performance from the Pakistan captain, who led from the front with both bat and ball. Chasing a modest target of 117 on a slow Sharjah pitch, Sri Lanka struggled to score runs. The Pakistan spinners effectively controlled the pace, leaving Sri Lanka's batters struggling. Sadia Iqbal emerged as the standout bowler, taking 3 wickets for 17 runs.
Pakistan's struggles in the powerplay
Pakistan women won the toss and decided to bat first, looking at the slow nature of the pitch. However, their innings faced an early setback, losing their top-order batters and struggling to build partnerships. Pakistan's run rate dipped below six runs per over, highlighting their difficulties against the Sri Lankan spinners. Omaima Sohail and Nida Dar provided some momentum with their contributions of 18 and 23 runs respectively. Unfortunately, their efforts were not enough to sustain Pakistan's innings, as they eventually succumbed to the pressure applied by the Sri Lankan spinners.
Pakistan's captain steers the team to victory
With Pakistan's batting struggling and facing the threat of being bowled out for a paltry total of 100, captain Fatima Sana stepped up to the challenge. She played some aggressive shots, providing her team with a much-needed boost and giving them a fighting chance in the contest.
The Sri Lankan spinners, Chamari Athaththu and Sugandhika Kumari, were exceptional in stifling Pakistan's middle order. Their combined efforts, along with Prabodhani's three wickets, significantly contributed to Pakistan's batting woes.
Sri Lanka's batting collapse
Pakistan's bowling attack put immediate pressure on Sri Lanka, starting with Diana Baig's early wicket, despite her injury. Fatima Sana made a crucial breakthrough, dismissing Chamari Athapaththu in the third over. Omaima Sohail followed suit with two wickets in her first two overs, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 35 for 3. Nashra Sandhu further tightened the noose with two wickets in her two overs.
Sri Lanka's batting struggled to gain momentum, with only Vishmi Gunaratne and Nilakshi de Silva reaching double figures. Pakistan's dominance was evident as they restricted Sri Lanka's scoring and maintained a tight grip on the match.
