Women’s CWCQ 2025: Pakistan Stays Undefeated, West Indies Falter as Bangladesh Qualifies Dramatically
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Synopsis
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 concluded with Pakistan remaining unbeaten, while Bangladesh qualified for the World Cup after a dramatic end to the West Indies' campaign.
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan finishes the tournament undefeated.
- Bangladesh qualifies for the World Cup.
- West Indies fall short despite a strong final performance.
- Emotional highs and lows defined the final day.
- Bangladesh’s second World Cup appearance is confirmed.
Lahore, April 19 (NationPress) The concluding day of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 was filled with intense drama and emotional highs and lows. Pakistan wrapped up a perfect campaign while Bangladesh made a dramatic entry into the World Cup after the West Indies fell agonizingly short in their last match.
Pakistan kicked off the day with a dominant seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh, preserving their unbeaten streak. After choosing to bat first, Bangladesh faced challenges against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. They stumbled to 21/3 early in the innings but found brief stability through Mst Ritu Moni (48) and Fahima Khatun (44 not out), setting a challenging total of 178/9. Sadia Iqbal stood out among the bowlers with figures of 3-28.
In pursuit of 179, Pakistan responded well despite losing Shawaal Zulfiqar early. A steady partnership of 80 runs between Muneeba Ali (69) and Sidra Amin (37) steadied the innings. Alia Riaz’s unbeaten 52 ensured the victory with 23 balls remaining, concluding a flawless group-stage performance for the hosts.
Despite their defeat, Bangladesh's aspirations remained intact, depending on the outcome of the West Indies match against Thailand. The Caribbean team faced a daunting challenge: to chase down 167 runs in just 10.1 overs for qualification. They could extend their chase to 11 overs if they matched 166 runs and then clinched victory with a six.
The West Indies began aggressively, with Hayley Matthews igniting their hopes with a stunning 70 off just 29 balls, complemented by Chinelle Henry’s explosive 48 off 17. However, the required run rate proved too challenging.
In the final two balls, needing a four and a six, Stafanie Taylor managed to hit a six, yet it wasn’t enough. The West Indies fell short of the target necessary to surpass Bangladesh on Net Run Rate, even though they won the match. In a cruel twist, the West Indies’ gallant batting effort ended in disappointment, while Bangladesh rejoiced in their qualification despite the earlier loss.
Bangladesh will join Pakistan, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and England, hosting India in the tournament later this year. This marks their second appearance in the history of the tournament.
