Pakistan Women secured an emphatic eight-wicket win against West Indies Women in a gripping T20 clash, showcasing stellar bowling prowess at the National Bank Stadium on Thursday.
Setting their sights on an 85-run target, Sidra Amin’s brisk 15 runs off 12 balls, including three boundaries, kickstarted Pakistan’s pursuit alongside Ayesha Zafar.
Although Muneeba Ali departed after contributing eight runs, Ayesha’s steadfast 42 not out off 48 balls, ably supported by Gull Feroza’s unbeaten 21 off 24 balls, formed an unyielding 46-run partnership, steering Pakistan to victory.
West Indies faced early setbacks as Qiana Joseph fell for a golden duck and Hayley Matthews managed only one run, both victims of Sadia Iqbal’s sharp bowling. Shemaine Campbelle’s valiant 26 runs off 20 balls, aided by Natalia Parvaiz’s direct hit that led to a run-out, were among the few highlights for the visitors.
Rameen Shamim and Nida Dar’s consistent strikes further destabilized West Indies, leaving them struggling at 49-5. Despite a brief resistance from Zaida James and Jannillea Glasgow, Nida’s dismissal ended their hopes as West Indies concluded their innings at 84-9 in 20 overs.
Sadia and Nida emerged as the chief architects of Pakistan’s bowling attack, claiming three wickets each, while Nashra Sundhu and Rameen contributed with one scalp apiece.
With this victory, Pakistan Women reduced West Indies Women’s lead in the five-match T20I series, which now stands at 3-1 in favor of the visitors. The final showdown is scheduled for Friday at the same venue.
Brief Scores:
West Indies Women 84-9, 20 overs: (Shemaine Campbelle 26, Zaida James 19; Sadia Iqbal 3-18, Nida Dar 3-19)
Pakistan Women 87-2, 16.3 overs: (Ayesha Zafar 42 not out, Gull Feroza 21 not out; Afy Fletcher 1-6).
