Pakistan Defend 130 as Fatima Leads Fightback Against Sri Lanka

News Desk

Islamabad: Pakistan produced a disciplined bowling display after posting 130 runs, reducing Sri Lanka to 31 for 3 in the opening six overs of their chase.

Captain Fatima Sana led Pakistan’s batting effort with a crucial 47 off 36 balls, helping her side recover from 92 for 5 after 16 overs. She added an unbeaten 38-run partnership with Tuba Hassan from just 24 deliveries to take Pakistan to a competitive total.

Earlier, Shawaal Zulfiqar provided Pakistan with an aggressive start in the powerplay, while Gull Feroza and other batters contributed useful runs in the middle overs.

Sri Lanka’s chase got off to a difficult start as Fatima Sana struck twice in the second over. She dismissed captain Chamari Athapaththu for 5 and then removed Sanjana Kavindi for a duck, leaving Sri Lanka in early trouble.

Sadia Iqbal and Umm-e-Hani then maintained the pressure with tight bowling. Sadia dismissed Hasini Perera for 3, while Umm-e-Hani later removed Imesha Dulani after the batter had scored 22 from 21 balls.

At the end of six overs, Sri Lanka were 31 for 3, with Harshitha Samarawickrama at the crease alongside the incoming batter.

Fatima Sana finished her spell with two wickets, while Sadia Iqbal had one wicket. Pakistan now need to maintain their discipline with the ball to secure victory and book a place in the final against India.