Fri Oct 04 15:55:59 UTC 2024: ## Pakistan Pull Off Stunning Upset in Women’s T20 World Cup Opener
**Sharjah, UAE:** In a shocking upset, Pakistan secured a 31-run victory over reigning Asia Cup Champions Sri Lanka in the opening match of the Women’s T20 World Cup. The match was held at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on October 4th, 2024.
Despite a relatively modest first innings total of 116, Pakistan’s bowlers bowled superbly to restrict Sri Lanka to just 85/9, securing a stunning victory.
The match was a testament to Pakistan’s bowling attack, with captain Fatima Sana leading the way by dismissing Sri Lanka opener Chamari Athapathu early in the innings. The spinners were particularly effective, with Sadia Iqbal taking 3/17 and Nashra Sandhu taking 2/15. Sri Lanka’s chase fizzled out under the lights, with only Vishmi Gunaratne and Nilakshika Silva reaching double figures.
Pakistan’s batting order proved unexpectedly fluid, with captain Sana top-scoring with 30 runs off just 20 balls.
The victory was a positive start for the new Pakistan captain Fatima Sana, who led her team to an impressive win in her first major tournament as captain. However, Sri Lanka’s campaign is now in jeopardy, as they face tougher opponents in Group A.
This match, which was the first of the tournament, was played in front of a packed stadium in Sharjah. With more thrilling matches to come, the Women’s T20 World Cup promises to be a spectacle of skill and excitement.
First Piper 