Pakistan kicked off their 2024 Women's T20 World Cup with a convincing 31-run win against Sri Lanka on October 3, Thursday at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. (Match Highlights)
Pakistan beat Sri Lanka in their 2024 Women's T20 World Cup campaign opener by 31 runs. Check the match report here
Pakistan kicked off their 2024 Women's T20 World Cup with a convincing 31-run win against Sri Lanka on October 3, Thursday at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. (Match Highlights)
Despite a shaky start, posting a modest total of 116/8 after opting to bat first, the 22-year-old captain Fatima Sana led a stunning comeback. The bowlers turned the game around, forcing Sri Lanka into a collapse as they managed only 85/9. What a performance from the Pakistani side in the second innings! Beautiful.
In a match marked by ups and downs, Fatima Sana's decision to bat first initially backfired as Pakistan posted an underwhelming total. With Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu delivering an impressive 3/18, alongside Sugandika Kumari's 3/19 and Udeshika Prabodhani's 3/20, the choice appeared even more questionable. But it all awaited a surprising turn of events.
On the fielding side Pakistan's bowlers came alive, delivering a collective performance that just turned the tide. Athapaththu (3/18), Sugandika Kumari (3/19), and Udeshika Prabodhani (3/20) wreaked havoc, sharing nine wickets among them.
Sana’s quickfire 30 runs off 20 balls, featuring four boundaries and a six, helped Pakistan surpass the hundred mark and set a target of 117—a modest total, yet one that led to a remarkable victory and earned her the Player Of the Match title.
Sadia Iqbal stood out with a match-winning haul of 3/17 in four overs, while Omaima Sohail (2/17), Nashra Sandhu (2/15), and captain Sana (2/10) all contributed effectively. Pakistan’s bowling attack overcame the loss came with the bat, leading their team to a memorable victory!
Next up in their Group A fixtures, Pakistan will face arch rivals India on October 6 at the Dubai International Stadium. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka have a tough challenge ahead, going up against defending champions Australia on October 5 at Sharjah Stadium.