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Pakistan’s women’s cricket team have officially secured their place in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 after a dominating win against Thailand in the ongoing Women’s World Cup Qualifer event, taking place in Pakistan.
Pakistan dominate with the bat in must-win clash
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana led from the front both strategically and with the bat. The team posted a challenging total of 205/6 in their 50 overs, thanks to significant contributions from the top order.
Top-order batter Sidra Amin was the star performer, anchoring the innings with a gritty 80 off 105 deliveries, which included nine boundaries. Captain Sana added to the momentum with a brisk unbeaten 62 from 59 balls, smashing six fours and a six. Together, the pair stitched a crucial 97-run partnership for the fifth wicket, rescuing Pakistan from a shaky 85/4 position.
Thailand bowlers tried their best to contain the scoring, with Thipatcha Putthawong bagging two wickets. Onnicha Kamchomphu and Nattaya Boochatham also chipped in with one wicket each.
Thailand crumble under pressure in chase
In reply, Thailand failed to build momentum and faltered in their chase, getting bundled out for just 118 runs in 34.4 overs. None of the batters could anchor the innings, and the team struggled to put together partnerships.
Wicketkeeper-batter Nannapat Koncharoenkai was the top scorer with a modest 19-run effort, highlighting the team’s collective batting failure. Pakistan bowlers were clinical with the ball, maintaining tight lines and exploiting the conditions to their advantage.
With the comprehensive 87-run victory, Pakistan not only continued their unbeaten run in the qualifiers but also sealed a berth for the Women’s World Cup with a game still remaining in the qualifiers.
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Why Pakistan won’t play in India despite qualifying for the event
Even though Pakistan have secured qualification for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, none of their matches will be played in India — the tournament’s official host nation. The decision stems from a mutual agreement between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), influenced by recent political dynamics.
This development is directly linked to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which recently took place in Pakistan. In response to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the men’s tournament due to security concerns, a compromise was struck between the cricketing boards and the ICC.
As part of the deal, India’s Champions Trophy matches were held at a neutral venue (UAE), and in exchange, Pakistan’s Women’s World Cup fixtures will be played outside India. The arrangement was made to ensure the smooth conduct of both ICC events without escalating political sensitivities.
