Pakistan started their ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a commanding win, defeating Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka by 31 runs at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on October 3. This victory sets the tone for Pakistan as they aim for more success in the tournament.

Pakistan fly high on the opening day of the Women's #T20WorldCup 2024 🤩#PAKvSL | #WhateverItTakes pic.twitter.com/afHJwjcnv8

— ICC (@ICC) October 3, 2024

Fatima Sana’s crucial knock helps Pakistan set a defendable target

Despite a shaky start, Pakistan managed to put up a competitive total, thanks to a brilliant contribution by captain Fatima Sana. After Pakistan struggled at 32/3, Sana stepped up, scoring a quickfire 30 off 20 balls with three fours and a six. Her aggressive batting helped Pakistan recover from early setbacks, propelling the team to 117, a total that proved too much for Sri Lanka on a sluggish pitch.

The battle of the captains goes in favour of Pakistan's #FatimaSana as she dismisses Sri Lanka's #ChamariAthapaththu! 🔥 (only available in India)#WomensWorldCuponStar #PAKSL pic.twitter.com/yBUr26FPjD

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 3, 2024

It's number 5️⃣ for #SriLanka and #Pakistan's power hitter #NidaDar departs for 23 (22)! 🤩

Can captain #FatimaSana score more runs for her side and set up the win? 🤔#WomensWorldCuponStar #PAKSL pic.twitter.com/47DzofHKTd

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 3, 2024

Youngest captain after Meg Lanning to lead her side to victory in a Women's #T20WorldCup match 💪

Watch Fatima Sana's @aramco #POTM performance 👉 https://t.co/NXmALCt3ld#WhateverItTakes #PAKvSL pic.twitter.com/ZXkyyyHSPN

— ICC (@ICC) October 3, 2024

Omaima Sohail and Nida Dar stabilize the innings

Following Pakistan’s top-order collapse, Omaima Sohail and Nida Dar played critical roles in stabilizing the innings. Omaima contributed with a patient 18, while Nida added a valuable 23. Their partnership brought much-needed momentum, laying the foundation for Fatima Sana’s late-game heroics.

 

 

 

 

 

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Sri Lanka’s bowlers shine despite loss

While Sri Lanka couldn’t chase down the target, their spinners, Chamari Athapaththu and Sugandhika Kumari, were outstanding with the ball. Both bowlers took three wickets each, keeping Pakistan under pressure throughout their innings. However, their efforts were not enough, as Sri Lanka fell short in their chase, managing only 85/9 in their 20 overs.

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Pakistan’s dominant bowling display, combined with Fatima Sana’s captaincy, made the difference in the match. Sri Lanka will need to regroup and refocus as they face the tough challenge of Australia in their next fixture, while Pakistan prepares for their high-profile clash against India.