ICC Women's T20 World Cup, Group 1, Old Trafford
Pakistan concluded their T20 World Cup campaign on a positive note by defeating the Netherlands by 37 runs, after the Dutch side lost their last seven wickets for just 13 runs. Pakistan posted a total of 126-6 in their 20 overs, with Gull Feroza unbeaten on 63 from 52 balls and Ayesha Zafar contributing 32. The Netherlands struggled in response, being bowled out for 89 in 17.5 overs.
Feroza and Zafar shared a crucial 79-run partnership for the second wicket off 61 balls, stabilizing Pakistan's innings after early wickets. Despite five Pakistani batters scoring single-digit runs, the team managed a competitive total. Iris Zwilling was the most successful bowler for the Netherlands, taking 2 wickets for 19 runs.
The Netherlands began their chase well, with Heather Siegers scoring 24 off 16 balls, providing a promising start. However, Siegers was dismissed lbw by Diana Baig, and although Babette de Leede played a composed innings of 41 runs from 41 balls, the required run rate increased steadily.
From 76-3, the Dutch batting lineup collapsed rapidly, losing all remaining wickets for just 13 runs in four overs. Fatima Sana played a pivotal role in this collapse, taking 3 wickets for 12 runs, including consecutive dismissals of De Leede and Silver Siegers. Caroline de Lange narrowly avoided a hat-trick ball but was bowled two deliveries later, sealing the victory for Pakistan.
Fatima Sana finished the tournament with 11 wickets, second only to India's Sree Charani.
Match Summary
- Pakistan: 126-6 (20 overs) - Gull Feroza 63* (52 balls); Iris Zwilling 2-19
- Netherlands: 89 all out (17.5 overs) - Babette de Leede 41; Fatima Sana 3-12, Ayesha Zafar 3-13
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