In a historic match on Tuesday in Dunedin, the Pakistan women's cricket team, led by Nida Dar, achieved a remarkable feat by defeating New Zealand for the first time in a T20I series. The Pakistani team secured a 10-run victory in the second T20I of the ongoing three-match series, successfully defending a total of 137 against the strong New Zealand side on their home ground.
This win marked Pakistan women's first-ever T20I series victory outside Asia and Ireland and their first overseas series win since October 2018. The series opener on December 3 saw New Zealand winning their first T20 international match, but Pakistan bounced back to secure a historic series win.
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Batting first, Pakistan set a competitive total with contributions from the entire batting lineup. Muneeba Ali scored a quick 35 off 28 balls, and Aliya Riaz added a late boost with her 32 off 22 deliveries, including three boundaries and a six. Despite facing a setback with the quick dismissals of Bismah Maroof and captain Nida Dar, Pakistan avoided a collapse, thanks to Aliya Riaz's late efforts.
New Zealand Women put up a valiant fight but could only manage 127 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their 20 overs. Hannah Rowe's spirited 33 off 24 balls and Georgia Plimmer's steady 28 off 28 were notable contributions, but the Pakistani bowlers, led by Fatima Sana, held their ground. Fatima Sana took three crucial wickets for 22 runs, while Sadia Iqbal claimed two wickets for 29 runs.
Fatima Sana emerged as Pakistan's hero with a total of six wickets in the two T20Is, including the key wicket of Suzie Bates in both games. With players like Aliya Riaz and Fatima Sana in top form, Pakistan aims to complete a clean sweep in the third T20I scheduled for December 9 in Queenstown.
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