On October 14, 2024, New Zealand Women’s cricket team delivered a commanding performance, defeating Pakistan Women by 54 runs in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
New Zealand’s Innings
New Zealand posted a respectable total of 110 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. Suzie Bates (28 off 29 balls) and Brooke Halliday (22 off 24 balls) were the backbone of New Zealand’s innings. While wickets fell at regular intervals, the Kiwis managed to maintain a steady run rate, thanks to the contributions of their top and middle-order batters.
A notable aspect of New Zealand’s innings was the disciplined bowling from Pakistan Women. Nashra Sundhu was the standout bowler for Pakistan, taking 3 wickets for 18 runs in her 4 overs. Omaima Sohail, Sadia Iqbal, and Nida Dar chipped in with a wicket each, with Iqbal and Dar conceding 23 and 26 runs respectively in their full quota of overs.
Pakistan’s Struggles with the Bat
Chasing 111 for victory, Pakistan Women never found their rhythm. New Zealand’s bowling attack, led by Player of the Match Eden Carson, suffocated Pakistan’s batting order right from the start. Carson’s figures of 2 for 7 in 3 overs proved pivotal. Rosemary Mair and Melie Kerr also made significant contributions, with Kerr taking 3 wickets for 14 runs.
Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals, and none of the batters could build a substantial partnership. Fatima Sana Khan, the captain, was the only batter to show some resistance, scoring 21 off 23 balls. Muneeba Ali Siddiqi was the second-highest scorer with 15, but both her and Khan’s efforts were not enough to take their team close to the target. Pakistan was bundled out for 56 in just 11.4 overs, falling 54 runs short of the target.
Key Moments:
- Eden Carson’s All-Round Performance: Carson’s two crucial wickets, including the one of Aliya Riaz, set the tone for New Zealand’s dominance in the second innings.
- Nashra Sundhu’s Bowling: Sundhu was exceptional with the ball, breaking key partnerships in New Zealand’s innings, but the lack of support from the batting lineup overshadowed her efforts.
- Melie Kerr’s Spell: Kerr’s 3 wickets in her 2.4 overs played a decisive role in Pakistan’s collapse.
Summary of the Match:
- New Zealand Women’s Total: 110/6 (20.0 overs)
- Top scorers: Suzie Bates (28), Brooke Halliday (22)
- Best bowlers for Pakistan: Nashra Sundhu (3/18), Sadia Iqbal (1/23), Nida Dar (1/26)
- Pakistan Women’s Total: 56 all out (11.4 overs)
- Top scorers: Fatima Sana Khan (21), Muneeba Ali Siddiqi (15)
- Best bowlers for New Zealand: Eden Carson (2/7), Melie Kerr (3/14), Rosemary Mair (1/18)
New Zealand’s comprehensive win solidified their position in the tournament, while Pakistan will need to regroup and address their batting concerns in the upcoming matches.
