Pakistan Crush Thailand to Seal Women’s World Cup Spot
News Desk
Lahore: A commanding all-round performance by skipper Fatima Sana not only ensured Pakistan’s entry into the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup but also highlighted the rise of a new generation of leaders in women’s cricket.
With a composed unbeaten 62 and a fiery three-wicket haul, the 23-year-old captain led from the front as Pakistan outclassed Thailand by 87 runs in their ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier match at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, sealing qualification with a game to spare.
This victory, Pakistan’s fourth in a row, underscores the team’s growing confidence and consistency on the global stage qualities that Sana has instilled in her side since taking over as captain.
A Captain’s Knock and Then Some
Choosing to bat first on a slow pitch, Pakistan was in early trouble at 85/4. But Sana’s calm under pressure, combined with Sidra Amin’s technically sound 80-run innings, turned the game on its head. Their 97-run fifth-wicket partnership rebuilt the innings, ultimately powering the team to a competitive total of 205/6 in 50 overs.
“Sidra provided the anchor we needed. I just played my natural game and focused on building a partnership,” said Sana post-match. “We knew 200-plus would put pressure on them, especially under lights.”
Spinners Seal the Deal
Thailand’s chase never really took off. Pakistan’s spin trio — Sana, Rameen Shamim, and Nashra Sandhu — each bagged three wickets, ripping through Thailand’s middle order with accuracy and turn. Thailand crumbled for just 118 in under 35 overs.
While Nannapat Koncharoenkai tried to resist with 19 runs, the lack of partnerships doomed the chase. Sana’s sharp leadership in rotating bowlers and setting attacking fields left Thailand no room to breathe.
Changing the Face of Women’s Cricket
Beyond the scorecard, Pakistan’s qualification under a young captain reflects a shift in the country’s women’s cricket landscape. With emerging players delivering under pressure and a tactically astute leadership at the helm, Pakistan’s women’s team is no longer just a participant — it’s becoming a contender.
Their consistent performance also earned them the top spot in the Qualifier standings, overtaking Bangladesh after their narrow defeat to West Indies.
Looking Ahead
With a ticket to the Women’s World Cup now secured, Pakistan will look to test their bench strength in the final group match while fine-tuning their strategy for the main event later this year.
“Qualifying was our first goal. Now, it’s about making a mark in the World Cup. We’re not just going there to compete — we want to win,” Sana said, her eyes reflecting ambition far bigger than qualification.
Key Stats:
Pakistan: 205/6 in 50 overs (Sidra Amin 80, Fatima Sana 62*)
Thailand: 118 all out in 34.4 overs (Nannapat 19; Sana, Rameen, Nashra 3 wickets each)
Result: Pakistan won by 87 runs
Player of the Match: Fatima Sana
