DUBAI: New Zealand set a target of 111 runs for Pakistan in a crucial group-stage match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 at the Dubai International Stadium.
New Zealand openers Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer provided a strong start, scoring 28 and 17 runs respectively. Pakistan’s Nashra Sundhu delivered a major breakthrough by dismissing both batters. Omaima Sohail added to the pressure by taking the wicket of Melie Kerr.
After losing their top order, New Zealand’s skipper Sophie Devine and Brooke Halliday built a fourth-wicket partnership to lift their total. Halliday was stumped for 22 by Muneeba Ali after missing a delivery from Sundhu. On the very next ball, Sadia Iqbal dismissed Devine for 19, increasing the pressure on New Zealand. Maddy Green added nine runs in the final over to push the total to 110.
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New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat first, aiming for a spot in the knockout stages. The White Ferns have been one of the surprise performers at this World Cup and needed a win over Pakistan to secure a place in the semi-finals.
Both New Zealand and Pakistan are still in contention to join Australia in the final four, though the margin of victory will be crucial. Australia secured their semi-final spot with a win over India, leaving the second spot open. A victory for New Zealand will see them leapfrog India, while Pakistan could sneak into the semi-finals with a big win over the Kiwis.
Match Details and Highlights:
- New Zealand finished their innings at 110/6 in 20 overs.
- Suzie Bates top-scored with 28 runs.
- Nashra Sundhu was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, taking three wickets.
- Omaima Sohail, Nida Dar, and Sadia Iqbal each took one wicket.
Pakistan must chase down the target in 10.4 overs to secure a spot in the semi-finals. With a modest total ahead, all eyes are on Pakistan’s batting line-up to see if they can deliver a strong performance and advance in the tournament.
Squads:
Pakistan: Fatima Sana (c), Aliya Riaz, Najiha Alvi, Gull Feroza, Iram Javed, Muneeba Ali, Nashra Sundhu, Nida Dar, Omaima Sohail, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Syeda Aroob Shah, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan.
New Zealand: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Fran Jonas, Leigh Kasperek, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu.
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