Pakistan celebrated a commanding victory over Nepal
DAMBULLA: Pakistan celebrated a commanding victory over Nepal in the ACC Women’s Asia Cup 2024 at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Sunday, thanks to impressive performances by Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali.
Match Summary:
Chasing a target of 109 runs, Pakistan achieved their goal in just 11.5 overs, losing only one wicket along the way. Feroza and Ali started strong, scoring 52 runs within the first six overs. By the halfway mark, Pakistan had reached 92 runs, making their win inevitable.
Gull Feroza scored 57 runs off 35 balls, including ten boundaries, though she was dismissed with only five runs needed. Muneeba Ali finished the match with a boundary, scoring 46 runs off 34 balls, leading Pakistan to a significant net run-rate-boosting victory after their earlier loss to India. Nepal’s bowler Kabita Joshi took the only wicket.
Toss and Fielding:
Earlier, Pakistan’s captain Nida Dar won the toss and chose to field. Pakistan’s bowlers justified her decision, with Fatima Sana taking a wicket in the first over and Sadia Iqbal claiming two more, reducing Nepal to 30-3 in five overs.
Nepal’s Innings:
Nepal’s Sita Rana Magar and her teammate struggled against Pakistan’s tight bowling, managing only 10 runs in the next 4.2 overs before both were run out. Puja Mahato contributed a cautious 25 runs, while Kabita Joshi’s unbeaten 31 off 23 balls, including four boundaries and a six, helped Nepal reach a total of 108-6 in their 20 overs.
Bowling Performance:
For Pakistan, Sadia Iqbal ended with two wickets, and Fatima Sana took one. Their excellent performance limited Nepal’s scoring opportunities and set the stage for Pakistan’s successful chase.
Key Moments:
- Early Breakthrough: Fatima Sana removed Samjhana Khadka in the first over, setting the tone for a disciplined bowling performance.
- Middle Overs Dominance: Sadia Iqbal dismissed Kabita Kunwar and Indu Barma, reducing Nepal to 30-3, giving Pakistan the upper hand.
- Run-Outs: Tight fielding led to the run-outs of both Sita Rana Magar and her namesake, further stifling Nepal’s progress.
- Late Resistance: Kabita Joshi’s unbeaten 31 off 23 balls provided some resistance, but it wasn’t enough to pose a significant challenge to Pakistan.
Conclusion:
Pakistan’s convincing win against Nepal in the ACC Women’s Asia Cup 2024 was marked by strong batting and disciplined bowling. The victory not only boosted their net run rate but also restored confidence after their earlier defeat to India. The team’s cohesive performance bodes well for their upcoming matches in the tournament.