In a low-scoring encounter at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 on Sunday (October 3), India registered their first win by defeating Pakistan by 6 wickets in Dubai. Pakistan posted a modest total of 105/8, with Nida Dar top-scoring for her side. India, led by Shafali Verma’s steady 32 and Harmanpreet Kaur’s quickfire 29, chased down the target with seven balls to spare. Despite a valiant all-round effort from Pakistan captain Fatima Sana, India proved too strong, clinching victory with ease.

Muneeba Ali and Nida Dar lead Pakistan’s innings

Pakistan’s batting performance in the match against India faced challenges from the start. Muneeba Ali, Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batter, tried to stabilize the innings with a composed knock of 17 off 26 balls, hitting two boundaries. However, Gull Feroza was dismissed for a duck, setting Pakistan back early. Sidra Amin scored 8 off 11 balls, but the team’s struggle continued as they lost wickets at regular intervals. Nida Dar top-scored with a gritty 28 off 34 balls, though she could not accelerate the innings as needed. Lower-order contributions from Fatima, who hit 13 off 8 balls, and Syeda Aroob Shah (14 off 17 balls) helped Pakistan reach a modest total of 105/8 in their 20 overs.

Arundhati Reddy and Shreyanka Patil star in India’s bowling attack

India’s bowling, led by Arundhati Reddy and Shreyanka Patil, restricted Pakistan to a manageable total. Reddy was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 19 runs in her four overs, including the crucial scalps of Nida and Aliya Riaz. Shreyanka Patil delivered an economical spell, taking 2 wickets for just 12 runs, including the dismissal of Muneeba. Renuka Singh and Deepti Sharma supported well with a wicket each, while India’s bowlers maintained pressure by taking wickets at key moments. Pakistan struggled to build partnerships, and India’s disciplined bowling performance left them defending a modest target of 106.

Shafali Verma, Harmanpreet Kaur steady knock anchors India’s chase

India’s chase of 106 was anchored by Shafali, who played a steady knock of 32 off 35 balls. Though Smriti Mandhana was dismissed early for just 7 runs by Sadia Iqbal, Shafali held her ground, hitting three boundaries during her stay. Jemimah Rodrigues contributed with a patient 23 off 28 balls, adding a crucial partnership with Shafali. Harmanpreet, who had to retire hurt after scoring a quick 29 off 24 balls, played a vital role in steering India close to the target. In the end, India comfortably reached 108/4 in 18.5 overs, winning by 6 wickets with 7 balls to spare.

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Fatima Sana’s all-round effort goes in vain for Pakistan

Pakistan’s captain Fatima gave an impressive all-round performance, taking 2 wickets for 23 runs after her earlier contribution with the bat. She dismissed key Indian batters Jemimah and Richa Ghosh, but her efforts were not enough to turn the tide in Pakistan’s favour. Sadia also bowled well, taking 1 wicket for 23 runs, but the target of 106 was not enough to challenge India. Despite their bowlers’ valiant efforts, Pakistan fell short.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.