In a commanding display at the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground, Pakistan Women secured a six-wicket victory against Scotland in a rain-shortened ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier match on Friday. The 32-over contest saw Pakistan’s all-round prowess, led by Fatima Sana’s fiery bowling and half-centuries from Muneeba Ali and Aliya Riaz, overpower a spirited Scottish side.
Scotland, opting to bat first, struggled early, slipping to 17-2. Captain Kathryn Bryce anchored the innings with a stellar 91 off 96 balls, studded with 10 fours and a six. Her partnerships with Sarah Bryce (21) and Ailsa Lister (31) propelled Scotland to a respectable 186-9. However, Fatima Sana’s 4-23 in five overs, including key breakthroughs, kept Pakistan in control, dismantling Scotland’s middle order.
Chasing 187, Pakistan faced early trouble at 36-2. Muneeba Ali (71 off 72) and Aliya Riaz (68 not out off 70) then forged a match-defining 93-run stand for the third wicket. Muneeba’s elegant strokeplay complemented Aliya’s composed aggression, steering Pakistan toward victory. Sidra Nawaz (14 not out) provided the finishing touches, sealing the chase with eight balls to spare.
Scotland’s bowlers, led by Chloe Abel (2-42), fought valiantly, with Kathryn Fraser and Rachel Slater claiming a scalp each, but they couldn’t derail Pakistan’s momentum. The win catapults Pakistan to the top of their group with four points from two matches, while Scotland holds third place.
Fatima Sana earned Player of the Match for her devastating spell, underlining Pakistan’s depth. As the qualifiers heat up, Pakistan’s blend of disciplined bowling and resilient batting marks them as serious contenders for World Cup qualification, while Scotland will look to regroup for their next challenge.
