The Pakistan women’s cricket team’s poor performance in the T20 Women’s World Cup 2024 not only sealed their exit from the tournament but also crushed India’s chances of making it to the semi-finals. In a crucial match against New Zealand, Pakistan needed to chase down a modest target of 110 runs within 10.4 overs to secure a spot in the semi-finals. However, a weak batting display saw Pakistan collapse for just 56 runs in 11.4 overs, handing New Zealand a comfortable victory by 54 runs. With this win, New Zealand secured their spot in the semi-finals alongside Australia from Group A.
Disappointing Batting Performance by Pakistan
Pakistan’s batting lineup failed to rise to the occasion in this do-or-die match. Their target of 110 runs was achievable, but none of the batters, except for captain Sana Fatima and Muniba Ali, could hold their ground. Sana Fatima top-scored with 21 runs, while Muniba Ali managed to contribute 15 runs. Unfortunately, no other batter could even reach double digits, as the team struggled to counter New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack.
This poor performance highlighted the lack of consistency in Pakistan’s batting lineup, which has been a problem throughout the tournament. Amelia Kerr led New Zealand’s bowling with three crucial wickets, while Aiden Carson chipped in with two, ensuring Pakistan never really got off to a solid start.
New Zealand’s Steady Innings with Key Contributions
New Zealand’s top-order batswomen, especially Suzie Bates and Brook Halliday, played vital roles in setting a defendable total. Bates anchored the innings with a composed 28 runs, while Halliday added 22 runs. Though the Kiwi batters struggled to build big partnerships, they did enough to cross the 100-run mark, which proved too much for Pakistan.
Sophie Devine, the New Zealand captain, won the toss and opted to bat first. Her team started cautiously, with Bates and Georgia Plimmer adding 39 runs in the power play. Bates showed her class by hitting early boundaries off Pakistan’s captain, Fatima Sana, before being dismissed by Nasra Sandhu in the ninth over. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, New Zealand managed to post a total of 110/6.
Nasra Sandhu and Omaima Sohail Shine in Bowling
While Pakistan’s batting was below par, their bowling, led by Nasra Sandhu, showed some promise. Sandhu took three wickets for just 18 runs, restricting New Zealand’s middle order. Omaima Sohail also bowled well, conceding only 14 runs and picking up a wicket. Other spinners like Sadia Iqbal and Nida Dar also contributed by keeping the Kiwi batters in check. However, the bowling effort was marred by poor fielding, as Pakistan’s players dropped a staggering eight catches.
These fielding lapses were costly, allowing New Zealand to put runs on the board that Pakistan ultimately couldn’t chase. Despite controlling New Zealand’s run flow in the middle overs, Pakistan’s missed chances allowed the Kiwi team to build enough momentum to set a competitive target.
Fielding Woes Continue for Pakistan
Pakistan’s fielding performance was another factor that contributed to their downfall. Suzie Bates was dropped twice during her innings, and Brook Halliday and Amelia Kerr were also given reprieves. Had Pakistan held onto these chances, they might have been able to restrict New Zealand to an even lower total, giving their batters a better shot at achieving the target.
In the final overs, New Zealand took advantage of Pakistan’s sloppy fielding and added crucial runs, pushing their score to 110. Dropping multiple catches at such a critical stage is something Pakistan will need to address moving forward.
Impact of Pakistan’s Defeat on India
India’s fate in the T20 World Cup was also hanging in the balance, relying on Pakistan to pull off a victory against New Zealand. Had Pakistan managed to chase down the target within 10.4 overs, India would have advanced to the semi-finals. However, with Pakistan’s disappointing collapse, India’s hopes were dashed.
India’s women’s team now faces the heartbreak of missing out on a semi-final spot, despite their own strong performances in the tournament. Pakistan’s inability to capitalize on their bowling efforts and fielding lapses has caused a ripple effect, leading to disappointment for Indian fans and players alike.
Semi-Final Lineup Set
With this result, Australia and New Zealand have qualified from Group A for the semi-finals of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. The competition now intensifies as both teams prepare for the knock-out stage, while Pakistan and India are left to reflect on their missed opportunities.
