New Zealand secured a place in the Women’s T20 World Cup semi-finals for the first time since 2016, defeating Pakistan by 54 runs in their final group stage match. Pakistan’s poor performance, including eight dropped catches and a batting collapse, ended their hopes of reaching the last four. The win also dashed India’s hopes of qualifying, as they needed Pakistan to beat New Zealand to stay in contention.
Match Summary
- New Zealand: 110 for 6 (Bates 28, Halliday 22, Sandhu 3-18)
- Pakistan: 56 all out (Sana 21, Kerr 3-14, Carson 2-7)
Pakistan, chasing a modest target of 111, collapsed to their lowest all-out total in T20 World Cup history, managing only 56 runs. They were under pressure to reach the target within 11.3 overs to secure a semi-final spot. However, New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, led by Amelia Kerr and Eden Carson, ensured they never got close.
New Zealand’s Inning: A Struggle for Runs
Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer gave New Zealand a promising start, hitting five fours in the first five overs. However, Pakistan’s bowlers quickly slowed the scoring rate. Nashra Sandhu led the attack with figures of 3 for 18, while Nida Dar and others chipped in with wickets. Despite multiple dropped catches by Pakistan, New Zealand couldn’t fully capitalize, managing only 110 for 6.
Pakistan’s Fielding Woes
Pakistan’s fielding was a major issue, dropping eight catches, including five off Nida Dar’s bowling. The missed chances allowed New Zealand’s batters to stay at the crease longer than they should have, making the target slightly more challenging.
Pakistan’s Collapse: Five Wickets in Powerplay
Needing to chase 101 runs in 11.3 overs, Pakistan tried to be aggressive, sending Aliya Riaz to open. But her stay was brief, lasting only three balls. The batting order struggled, with five wickets falling in the powerplay itself, leaving them at 28 for 5.
Nida Dar, who batted at No. 7, and Sana Mir tried to mount a recovery with a 24-run partnership, but the damage was already done. Once Dar fell in the tenth over, Pakistan’s batting crumbled, losing their last five wickets for just four runs.
What’s Next?
New Zealand’s victory not only ends a long drought of semi-final appearances but also boosts their confidence heading into the knockout stages. They will be looking to build on this win and continue their momentum.
