The first T20I of the Pakistan Women’s tour of New Zealand 2023 saw a one-sided battle between New Zealand and Pakistan at University Oval. New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first, posting 127/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
New Zealand innings
Maddy Green emerged as the top scorer for the New Zealand side, showcasing her prowess with a blistering 43 off 28 deliveries. Despite notable contributions from Green and Suzie Bates (28 off 30), the hosts struggled to build substantial partnerships.
Pakistan’s bowlers put up a commendable display, with Fatima Sana leading the attack, claiming her career-best figures of 3/18 runs. Diana Baig and Nida Dar also chipped in with crucial wickets, restricting the White Ferns from setting a daunting target.
Pakistan innings
In response, Pakistan chased down the target of 128 runs in 18.2 overs with a stellar batting performance. Shawaal Zulfiqar led the charge with a composed 41 off 42 balls, well supported by Muneeba Ali, Nida Dar and Aliya Riaz, ensuring a comfortable victory for the visiting team.
Despite efforts from Sophie Devine, who scalped 2 wickets for 23 runs, the New Zealand bowlers struggled to contain the Pakistani batters, ultimately falling short in defending their total.
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Player of the Match
Fatima Sana’s impactful performance with the ball earned her the well-deserved ‘Player of the Match’ title.
🌟 Player of the match 🌟
In her first T20I since the return from injury, @imfatimasana bowls an outstanding spell of 3-18 💫#NZWvPAKW | #BackOurGirls pic.twitter.com/dbKBJDGXFi
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) December 3, 2023
With Pakistan securing a convincing 7-wicket win in the opening encounter, the stage is set for an exciting showdown in the next match scheduled for Tuesday, December 5, once again at University Oval.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
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