• Pakistan Women registered an emphatic victory against New Zealand Women in the first T20I.

  • Fatima Sana shined with the ball for Pakistan.

NZ-W vs PAK-W: Fatima Sana’s career-best bowling figures guides Pakistan to comprehensive win over New Zealand
Fatima Sana (Photo Source: Twitter)

The first T20I of the Pakistan Women’s tour of New Zealand 2023 saw a one-sided battle between New Zealand and Pakistan at University Oval. New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first, posting 127/6 in their allotted 20 overs.

New Zealand innings

Maddy Green emerged as the top scorer for the New Zealand side, showcasing her prowess with a blistering 43 off 28 deliveries. Despite notable contributions from Green and Suzie Bates (28 off 30), the hosts struggled to build substantial partnerships.

Pakistan’s bowlers put up a commendable display, with Fatima Sana leading the attack, claiming her career-best figures of 3/18 runs. Diana Baig and Nida Dar also chipped in with crucial wickets, restricting the White Ferns from setting a daunting target.

Pakistan innings

In response, Pakistan chased down the target of 128 runs in 18.2 overs with a stellar batting performance. Shawaal Zulfiqar led the charge with a composed 41 off 42 balls, well supported by Muneeba Ali, Nida Dar and Aliya Riaz, ensuring a comfortable victory for the visiting team.

Despite efforts from Sophie Devine, who scalped 2 wickets for 23 runs, the New Zealand bowlers struggled to contain the Pakistani batters, ultimately falling short in defending their total.

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Player of the Match

Fatima Sana’s impactful performance with the ball earned her the well-deserved ‘Player of the Match’ title.

With Pakistan securing a convincing 7-wicket win in the opening encounter, the stage is set for an exciting showdown in the next match scheduled for Tuesday, December 5, once again at University Oval.

Also READ: South Africa Women vs Bangladesh Women 2023, T20I & ODI series – Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

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