Fatima Highlights Energy Dip, Calls for Improved Batting After Loss

COLOMBO: Following a 107-run defeat to Australia in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, Pakistan’s captain, Fatima Sana, emphasized the importance of batters constructing substantial innings. The match took place at the R Premadasa Stadium on Wednesday.

After choosing to bowl, Pakistan’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Nashra Sandhu, initially disrupted Australia’s batting lineup, reducing them to 76/7 in 21.1 overs.

However, Pakistan was unable to sustain this advantage, as Beth Mooney’s resilient century propelled Australia to a competitive score of 221/9 in their 50 overs.

In response, Pakistan’s batting order could only muster 114 runs before being bowled out in 36.3 overs, marking their third consecutive loss in the tournament.

Reflecting on the team’s performance, the captain acknowledged their dominance in the initial 20 overs. However, Mooney’s determined innings led to a decline in their energy levels. This allowed Australia to post a defendable total and secure a significant victory, moving them to the top of the standings.

“We were in control for the first 20 overs of the innings. Subsequently, Beth Mooney performed admirably, causing our team’s energy to wane. This is an area where we need to show improvement,” Fatima stated during the post-match presentation.

“Maintaining control from the beginning to the end is crucial. We need to sustain the energy we displayed in the first 20 overs throughout the entire match.”

“Mooney’s performance was remarkable. We opted to bowl first due to the pitch conditions, which were slow and conducive to spin. We are confident in our spinners’ abilities, which was a key factor in our decision. Our team boasts some of the best spinners in Pakistan.”

Following three losses in as many games, Pakistan, currently at the bottom of the standings, will face England on October 15 at the same venue. Fatima Sana urged the batters to elevate their performance, indicating that discussions would be held with the batting unit.

“Today favored the bowlers. We need to engage in discussions with the batters to encourage them to bat deeper into the innings. Our target should be around 190-200 runs, and we will address this collectively.”