Pakistan’s bowlers dominated as Sri Lanka struggled to meet a 117-run target in the Women’s T20 World Cup match on Thursday at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, falling short by 32 runs.
The Sri Lankan team managed only 85 runs for nine wickets, unable to contend with Pakistan’s skilled bowlers. While Nilakshika Silva and Vishmi Gunaratne of Sri Lanka contributed 22 and 20 runs, the rest of the lineup faltered.
Sadia Iqbal of Pakistan led the wicket-taking with three dismissals. Teammates Omaima Sohail, Nashra Sandhu, and Fatima Sana each took two wickets, propelling Pakistan to a 31-run victory.
Earlier in the game, the Green Shirts chose to bat first but were all out for 116 runs. Sri Lankan bowlers shone, quickly dismissing Pakistan’s openers. Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza fell early, leaving Pakistan at 17 runs after four overs.
Sri Lanka’s captain, Athapaththu, continued the pressure by taking out Sidra Amin in the sixth over after she scored 12 off 10 balls.
Nida Dar and Omaima Sohail formed a brief 25-run partnership before Kavisha Dilhari dismissed Sohail. Dar then partnered with Tuba Hassan, adding some runs before Udeshika Prabodhani bowled Dar for a 22-ball 23.
Pakistan’s position worsened as they fell to 84/8 in 14.5 overs, despite efforts from the lower order. Fatima, the captain, top-scored with 30 runs off 20 balls, including three fours and a six, before being dismissed in the final over.
For Sri Lanka, Athapaththu, Kumari, and Prabodhani each claimed three wickets, with Dilhari adding one.
