In a nail-biting encounter, Pakistan’s women’s cricket team emerged victorious against South Africa in the second T20 of the series, winning by 13 runs and leveling the series 1-1. Despite losing their captain Fatima Sana to injury during the match, Pakistan showcased a resilient team effort to pull off this win.
Fatima Sana’s Injury Changes the Game
The game took a dramatic turn when Pakistan captain Fatima Sana suffered a concussion after being struck on the face while fielding. She was forced to leave the field, and in her absence, Pakistan’s vice-captain Muneeba Ali stepped up to take charge. Despite this setback, Pakistan’s determination never wavered, and Muneeba’s stellar performance with both bat and leadership ensured the team stayed on course for a memorable win. Muneeba was later named Player of the Match for her outstanding contribution.
Muneeba Ali’s Key Role in Setting Up Pakistan’s Highest T20 Score
Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first in the match played in Multan on 18 September. The opening pair of Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza got Pakistan off to a steady start, putting together 25 runs in just under 4 overs. Feroza departed early, scoring 10, but Muneeba kept the momentum going, playing a composed yet aggressive knock.
Muneeba anchored the innings, building a crucial 49-run partnership with Sidra Amin for the second wicket. The left-handed batter played a pivotal role in keeping the scoreboard ticking and laid the foundation for a strong total. Muneeba Ali’s 45 runs off 34 balls, at a strike rate of 132, included 6 fours and 2 sixes, ensuring Pakistan was well on its way to a competitive score. Her efforts at the top allowed the middle order to capitalize in the later stages of the innings.
Nida Dar Crosses Milestone, Fatima Sana and Aliya Riaz Finish Strong
Veteran all-rounder Nida Dar contributed significantly to Pakistan’s batting effort, scoring 29 off 21 balls. In the process, she reached the milestone of 2000 runs in Women’s T20 Internationals, a testament to her consistent performances for Pakistan over the years. She became only the second Pakistani woman to achieve this feat in the T20 format.
The innings’ final flourish came from the lower order, with captain Fatima Sana and Aliya Riaz unleashing fireworks in the death overs. Fatima played a crucial unbeaten knock of 37 runs off 23 balls, including 3 fours and 2 sixes, while Aliya added a rapid 17 not out from just 7 balls. Their partnership in the last five overs added 60 valuable runs, propelling Pakistan to a daunting total of 181/4 in 20 overs, their highest-ever score in Women’s T20 Internationals.
South Africa’s Response Falls Short Despite Wickets in Hand
Chasing 182 to win, South Africa never really got into a rhythm. Early wickets set them back, with Ayabonga Khaka and Lara Goodall struggling to form significant partnerships. Despite a 50-run stand for the second wicket, quick dismissals in the middle order meant South Africa found themselves under pressure throughout the chase.
Pakistan’s bowlers did an excellent job of maintaining control, and despite South Africa keeping wickets in hand, they couldn’t match the required run rate. Needing 23 runs from the final over, South Africa managed only 10, finishing their innings on 168/4 after 20 overs, falling 13 runs short of the target.
Pakistan’s Resilience Shines Through
This victory was especially significant for Pakistan as it came in challenging circumstances. After Fatima Sana’s injury, Tasmia Rubab was called in as a substitute, and vice-captain Muneeba Ali had to take over leadership duties in the middle of a high-stakes match. Muneeba not only led from the front with the bat but also showed composure in guiding her team to defend their total.
Muneeba’s captaincy and performance, combined with Pakistan’s strong finish in their innings, highlighted the depth and determination of the team. Her ability to step up in a pressure situation after Fatima’s injury was one of the key factors in Pakistan leveling the series.
This victory also showcased Pakistan’s growing strength in women’s cricket, with several players performing in crucial moments, both with bat and ball. With one match left to decide the series, Pakistan will look to carry forward the momentum they gained from this win.
