Pakistan Secures Unbeaten Victory in ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier

LAHORE: Pakistan concluded their ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier campaign without a loss, securing a decisive seven-wicket triumph against Bangladesh in the tournament’s 14th match. The match took place at the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground on Saturday.

Bangladesh’s captain, Nigar Sultana, elected to bat first, a decision that proved unfavorable as the team’s batting lineup struggled, achieving a total of 178/9 in 50 overs. Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Sadia Iqbal, who claimed three wickets for 28 runs across 10 overs, maintained tight control.

Fatima Sana and Diana Baig offered strong support, each taking two wickets. Rameen Shamim and Nashra Sandhu each secured one dismissal.

Ritu Moni, a middle-order batter, was Bangladesh’s highest scorer, contributing 48 runs from 76 balls, including five boundaries, in their crucial match.

Fahima Khatun, batting in the lower middle order, also made a significant contribution with an unbeaten 44 off 53 deliveries, hitting four boundaries.

The home team chased the 179-run target with ease, securing the win with three wickets down and 62 balls remaining. Muneeba Ali and Aliya Riaz both scored half-centuries, anchoring the innings.

Muneeba Ali led Pakistan’s batting performance with 69 runs off 93 balls, which included eight fours. Aliya Riaz remained unbeaten with 52 runs from 65 balls, hitting six fours and one six.

Sidra Amin, a top-order batter, added a valuable 33 runs from 52 balls, with four boundaries.

For Bangladesh, Rabeya Khan, Nahida Akter, and Marufa Akter each managed to take one wicket.

Pakistan had already secured their spot in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India with a dominant 87-run victory over Thailand on Thursday.

Bangladesh’s qualification now hinges on the result of the match between West Indies and Thailand.

If West Indies defeats Thailand by a significant margin, they could overtake Bangladesh for the second qualifying position, joining Pakistan in the upcoming major tournament.