In a thrilling T20 World Cup clash at Sharjah, Pakistan secured a 31-run victory over Sri Lanka, thanks to an all-round effort from their captain Fatima Sana and the team’s spinners. Pakistan, despite being bowled out for 116, managed to keep Sri Lanka to a mere 85/9 on a slow pitch, marking a comprehensive win in their first T20 World Cup face-off in a decade.
Match Highlights:
- Pakistan’s Innings: After choosing to bat, Pakistan stumbled with regular wickets falling but managed to post 116 runs. Fatima Sana played a crucial cameo of 30 off 20 balls, lifting her side from a precarious position of 84/8. Key contributions came from Nida Dar (23) and Omaima Sohail in the middle order, though wickets kept tumbling due to sharp bowling by Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu (3-18), Sugandika Kumari (3-19), and Udeshika Prabodhani (3-20).
- Sri Lanka’s Response: Chasing 117, Sri Lanka lost their captain Chamari Athapaththu early, caught at extra cover by Sana. From then on, Pakistan’s spinners dominated. Omaima Sohail and Nashra Sandhu bowled with precision, while Sadia Iqbal claimed 3-17. Sri Lanka’s batters found no rhythm, hitting only three boundaries in their entire innings and struggling to force the pace.
- Spin Masterclass: The standout moment came when Omaima Sohail delivered a beautiful off-spin ball to dismiss Hasini Perera, spinning it 4.7 degrees to knock off the stumps, symbolizing Pakistan’s command in the game.
Final Scorecard:
- Pakistan: 116 in 20 overs (Fatima Sana 30; Chamari Athapaththu 3-18, Sugandika Kumari 3-19, Udeshika Prabodhani 3-20)
- Sri Lanka: 85/9 in 20 overs (Sadia Iqbal 3-17, Fatima Sana 2-10, Nashra Sandhu 2-15)
- Result: Pakistan won by 31 runs.
With this victory, Pakistan has made a strong statement in the tournament, with Fatima Sana leading both with the bat and the ball.