In a historic moment for Pakistan women’s cricket, the team secured a series win against New Zealand on Tuesday, marking their first-ever series victory outside of Asia and Ireland. The Green Team emerged victorious in the second T20 International game of the three-match series in Dunedin, securing the series after an impressive performance.
The pivotal victory follows the women’s team’s maiden win over New Zealand on Sunday, where they triumphed by seven wickets in the first Twenty20 International. Today’s match saw all-rounder Aliya Riaz shine, earning the Player of the Match award for her not-out 32 from 22 balls towards the end of the Pakistan innings, helping set a total of 137 for the loss of six wickets.
Pakistan’s batting display featured contributions from key players, with wicketkeeper batter Muneeba Ali Siddiqi scoring 35 at the top of the order, supported by Bismah Maroof’s 21 and skipper Nida Dar’s 14. New Zealand’s Fran Jones emerged as the standout bowler, taking two wickets in her four overs while conceding 21 runs.
In response, New Zealand faced challenges early on, losing three wickets in the powerplay, impacting their chase. Despite late efforts from Georgia Plimmer and Hannah Rowe, the Kiwis fell short as Pakistan secured a 10-run victory. Bowlers Fatima Sana and Sadia Iqbal played crucial roles, with Sana claiming three wickets for 22 runs in her four overs, while Iqbal took two wickets for 29 runs.
The series win outside their familiar territories and the away series victory since 2018 adds significant achievements to the Pakistan women’s cricket team’s record. The third and final T20I of the series is scheduled to take place in Queensland on December 9, offering another opportunity for both teams to showcase their skills.
Scores in Brief:
- Pakistan: 137-6 in 20 overs (Muneeba Ali 35, Aliya Riaz 32 not out, Nida Dar 14; Fran Jones 2-21)
- New Zealand: 127-7 in 20 overs (Georgia Plimmer 28 run out, Hannah Rowe 33; Fatima Sana 3-22)
