Pakistan Women Defeat Sri Lanka by 31 Runs in ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 Opener

News Desk

Islamabad: In a thrilling start to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan Women triumphed over Sri Lanka Women by 31 runs in the second match of the opening day, held at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

Defending a modest total of 116, Pakistan’s bowling unit, led by captain Fatima Sana and spinner Sadia Iqbal, restricted Sri Lanka to 85-9 in their 20 overs.

Fatima Sana delivered an all-round performance, contributing 30 runs off 20 balls from No. 7 and later taking 2-10 in her 2.5 overs. Sadia Iqbal was also instrumental with her 3-17, while Omaima Sohail and Nashra Sundhu chipped in with two wickets each, helping Pakistan seal a comfortable victory.

Earlier, after opting to bat, Pakistan faced early trouble, reduced to 32-3 in six overs. Nida Dar (23 off 22 balls) and Omaima Sohail (18 off 19 balls) managed to steady the innings with a 25-run partnership.

However, it was Fatima Sana’s late surge, which included three boundaries and a six, that helped Pakistan post 116 in 20 overs. Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu, Sugandika Kumari, and Udeshika Prabodhani each picked up three wickets to keep Pakistan’s total within reach.

Despite a cautious start, Sri Lanka faltered after the dismissal of captain Chamari Athapaththu, who managed just 6 runs. Only Nilakshika Silva (22 off 25 balls) and Vishmi Gunaratne (20 off 34 balls) provided any resistance, but Pakistan’s bowlers kept the pressure on to seal a 31-run victory.

Pakistan will next face arch-rivals India Women on Sunday, 6 October, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Brief Scores:

Pakistan Women: 116 all out in 20 overs (Fatima Sana 30, Nida Dar 23, Omaima Sohail 18; Chamari Athapaththu 3-18, Sugandika Kumari 3-19, Udeshika Prabodhani 3-20)Sri Lanka Women: 85-9 in 20 overs (Nilakshika Silva 22, Vishmi Gunaratne 20; Sadia Iqbal 3-17, Fatima Sana 2-10, Nashra Sundhu 2-15, Omaima Sohail 2-17)

Player of the Match: Fatima Sana (Pakistan Women)