Women's Asia Cup 2024: Pakistan keep semi-final hopes alive with Nepal thrashing

Pakistan secured a commanding victory by 9 wickets in their second match of the 2024 Women's Asia Cup on Sunday at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Chasing a target of 109, Pakistan's openers, Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali, put on a masterful display, forging a 105-run partnership. Feroza shone with her first T20I half-century, scoring 57 runs off just 35 balls, hitting 10 boundaries. Muneeba complemented her perfectly, remaining unbeaten on 46 runs from 34 balls, which included eight fours. Pakistan achieved the target in just 11.5 overs.

Earlier, Pakistan's decision to bowl first paid off as they quickly put Nepal on the back foot. Fatima Sana struck in the first over, dismissing Samjhana



Khadka for 4. Nepal managed a brief recovery thanks to Sita Rana Magar and Kabita Kunwar, but lost momentum with two quick wickets on 30 runs. Sadia Iqbal removed Kunwar for 13 and Nepal's captain Indu Barma for a duck.

Nepal's innings slowed considerably, especially after the dismissal of Rubina Chhetry in the 10th over. Sita Rana Magar top-scored with 26 runs from 30 balls before falling in the 15th over. However, a late push from Kabita Joshi and Puja Mahato helped Nepal post a respectable total of 108 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. Kabita remained unbeaten on 31 runs off 23 balls, featuring three fours and a six, while Mahato contributed a valuable 25. Sadia Iqbal was the standout bowler for Pakistan, finishing with figures of 2 for 19.