Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team Secures Dominant Victory Over West Indies in ICC World Cup Qualifier
LAHORE: Pakistan Women delivered a strong performance to defeat the West Indies Women’s team by 65 runs in their third match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Qualifier at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore on Monday. This crucial win boosts Pakistan’s points tally to six, significantly improving their chances of qualifying for the Women’s Cricket World Cup in India later this year.
Pakistan Set a Competitive Total of 191
After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Pakistan Women posted 191 all out in 49.5 overs. The innings was anchored by Sidra Ameen, who top-scored with a composed 54 runs. She was supported by Muneeba Ali (33), Sidra Nawaz (23), Aliya Riaz (20), and Omaima Sohail (16), while captain Fatima Sana added a handy 15 lower down the order.
Despite Pakistan’s steady batting, the West Indies bowling attack kept the total in check. Afy Fletcher and Hayley Matthews led the charge with two wickets each, while Aaliyah Alleyne, Karishma Ramharack, and Sheneta Grimmond chipped in with one wicket apiece.
Disciplined Bowling Secures Win for Pakistan Women
Chasing 192 for victory, the West Indies Women’s team crumbled under pressure, managing only 126 all out in 39.2 overs. The innings started disastrously as captain Hayley Matthews was dismissed on the first ball, setting a negative tone for the run chase.
Despite brief resistance from Stafanie Taylor (17), Shemaine Campbelle (14), Jannillea Glasgow (18), and Shabika Gajnabi (21), the team failed to build meaningful partnerships.
Pakistan’s bowling unit was clinical, led by captain Fatima Sana, who took 3 wickets. She received excellent support from Nashra Sandhu and Rameen Shamim, who claimed 2 wickets each, while Sadia Iqbal added one to her tally. The bowlers’ tight lines and effective use of the pitch ensured that West Indies never looked in control of the chase.
Pakistan Inches Closer to World Cup Qualification
With this victory, Pakistan Women now sit with six points from three matches, putting them in a strong position for 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup qualification. Upcoming fixtures against Thailand (April 17) and Bangladesh (April 19) present Pakistan with two chances to secure their ticket to India.
A win in either of the remaining matches will be enough to guarantee Pakistan’s qualification for the World Cup.