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.
