In an exhilarating encounter at the ICC Women T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan emerged victorious over Sri Lanka by 31 runs, thanks to a stellar performance by their bowlers. The match, held at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, was a testament to Pakistan’s determination and skill, setting the tone for their campaign in the prestigious tournament.
Match Overview – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka in ICC Women T20 World Cup 2024
The clash between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was highly anticipated, with both teams boasting strong line-ups. Pakistan, led by Fatima Sana, showcased a commendable team effort, while Sri Lanka, captained by the seasoned Chamari Athapaththu, aimed to leverage their recent Asia Cup success. However, it was Pakistan’s day as they outclassed their rivals with a combination of disciplined bowling and timely wickets.
Pakistan’s Innings: A Modest Start
Pakistan batted first and struggled to build momentum, eventually being bowled out for 116 runs in their 20 overs. Sidra Amin and Muneeba Ali provided a steady start, but the team faced a middle-order collapse. Chamari Athapaththu and Sugandika Kumari spearheaded the Sri Lankan bowling attack, causing significant damage early on. Fatima Sana, however, stood out with a late flourish, scoring a crucial 30 runs off 20 balls, which included a massive six that helped Pakistan reach a defendable total.
Sadia Iqbal’s Bowling Masterclass
Defending a modest total, Pakistan’s bowlers rose to the occasion, particularly Sadia Iqbal, who delivered a remarkable performance. Iqbal’s spell was a game-changer, as she took critical wickets at crucial junctures. Her figures included dismissing Sugandika Kumari for a golden duck and breaking through Sri Lanka’s lower-middle order, ensuring they never settled into their chase.
Fatima Sana’s All-Round Brilliance
Fatima Sana was instrumental not just with the bat but also with the ball. Her opening spell set the tone for Pakistan’s defense. She claimed the crucial wicket of the Sri Lankan captain, Chamari Athapaththu, early in their innings, which hampered Sri Lanka’s chase significantly. Sana’s ability to maintain pressure with economical bowling and strategic field placements contributed to Pakistan’s dominance throughout the game.
Sri Lanka’s Struggle and Pakistan’s Dominance
Sri Lanka’s innings never really took off as they lost wickets at regular intervals. Despite efforts from players like Nilakshi de Silva, who tried to anchor the innings, Pakistan’s relentless bowling attack proved too formidable. Sri Lanka finished their innings at 85/9, falling short by 31 runs.
Conclusion – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka in ICC Women T20 World Cup 2024
Pakistan’s triumph over Sri Lanka in this match was a testament to their cohesive team effort and strategic acumen. With Sadia Iqbal’s exceptional bowling performance and Fatima Sana’s all-round contributions, Pakistan has set a strong foundation for their future games in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. This victory not only boosts their confidence but also sends a strong message to other teams in the competition. As the tournament progresses, fans eagerly anticipate more such thrilling performances from Pakistan.
Read more: How to Watch ICC Women T20 World Cup 2024 Live in India – TV Channels and Streaming Details
FAQ
Who won the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka match in 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup?
Pakistan beat Lanka by 31 runs.
