World Cup Qualifier: Fatima Sana Shines as Pakistan Secures Spot for ICC Women’s World Cup 2025
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Synopsis
Fatima Sana's outstanding performance leads Pakistan Women to a 67-run victory over Thailand, securing qualification for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. With crucial contributions with bat and ball, Pakistan maintains an unbeaten record in the tournament.
Key Takeaways
- Fatima Sana's all-round performance was pivotal.
- Pakistan Women qualified for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025.
- Sidra Amin scored a crucial 80 runs.
- Pakistan's spin attack dominated Thailand's batting lineup.
- Fielding issues need addressing despite the win.
Lahore, April 17 (NationPress) Fatima Sana's exceptional all-round display, paired with a robust bowling effort, propelled Pakistan Women to qualify for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 following a decisive 67-run triumph over Thailand at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Thursday.
Captain Fatima Sana once again proved to be the match-deciding player — she first contributed with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 62, and then led the bowling attack with a three-wicket haul. This victory ensured Pakistan secured their place in the prestigious event scheduled for later this year in India, marking them as the first team to qualify from the six-nation qualifier that included Bangladesh, West Indies, Ireland, Scotland, and Thailand.
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Pakistan faced challenges early in their innings, losing wickets consistently. The innings was precariously placed at 85 for 4 in the 32nd over when Fatima joined veteran Sidra Amin. The pair formed a vital 97-run partnership that not only steadied the innings but also set the stage for a competitive total.
Sidra, a reliable performer throughout the qualifiers, once again rose to the occasion with a steady 80 runs from 105 balls. She struck eight boundaries and anchored the innings effectively when the top order struggled under pressure.
Meanwhile, Fatima took advantage of several missed opportunities by Thailand’s fielders, scoring an unbeaten 62 off just 59 balls, including five fours and a six. Her late surge pushed Pakistan past the 200-run mark, concluding at 205 for 6 — a total that appeared modest on paper but proved sufficient during the match.
Thailand’s bowlers, particularly medium pacer Phannita Maya and off-spinner Onnicha Kamchomphu, maintained discipline during the power-play and made early breakthroughs. Pakistan’s young opener Shawaal Zulfiqar, making her tournament debut, was dismissed cheaply while attempting to break free from Phannita's tight bowling. Muneeba Ali also fell early, misplaying a sweep off Kamchomphu.
Another unfortunate run-out of Aliya Riaz — for the second consecutive match — compounded Pakistan’s top-order challenges, but the partnership between Sidra and Fatima revived their innings.
In pursuit of 206, Thailand appeared to establish a solid foundation, reaching 44 for 1 at one point. However, the introduction of Fatima Sana changed the game dynamics in Pakistan’s favor. The captain dismissed opener Nattaya Boochatham for 16, undermining Thailand’s top order.
From that moment, it became a spin spectacle. Pakistan’s left-arm duo of Nashra Sandhu and Sadia Iqbal, along with off-spinner Rameen Shamim, dismantled Thailand’s middle and lower order. Rameen complemented Fatima effectively, taking three wickets, while Nashra and Sadia ensured Thailand never established a rhythm.
Eventually, Thailand was bowled out for only 138 in 45.4 overs, falling short by 67 runs. Although they showed resilience at times, their inexperience against quality spin was apparent. Fatima concluded with impressive figures of 3 for 29, securing the Player of the Match accolade.
Pakistan has now triumphed in all four matches of the tournament, entering the final round with an unblemished record. Their capability to defend totals with a formidable spin attack, combined with critical contributions from senior players, has been pivotal.
Sidra Amin has recorded three fifties in four innings, establishing herself as the cornerstone of Pakistan’s batting lineup. Meanwhile, Fatima has emerged as a crucial leader in this campaign, excelling with both bat and ball.
While fielding remains a concern — with six dropped chances potentially costing them dearly on another day — Pakistan’s bowlers have consistently rescued the team from challenging situations.
