DAMBULLA: Pakistan’s Gull Feroza struck her second consecutive half-century to propel her team to a commanding ten-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Women’s Asia Cup T20 2024 match at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Sri Lanka.

With this win, Pakistan Women have taken a significant step forward towards improving their chance of securing a semi-final berth. Choosing to field first, Pakistan’s bowlers swiftly dismantled the UAE batting lineup, limiting them to a modest 103-8 in their 20 overs. Pakistan’s chase was smooth and swift, as they raced to 107 without losing a wicket in just 14.1 overs, surpassing the target with 35 balls to spare. The match showcased a stellar performance by Pakistan openers Gul Feroza and Muneeba Ali, who continued their impressive form from the previous game against Nepal. The duo shared an unbeaten 107-run partnership, marking their second century stand together; they had previously scored 105 runs in the last match. Feroza’s blistering knock of 62 not out, achieved in just 46 balls and including eight boundaries, was a highlight of the innings as she was also received Player of the Match award.

Muneeba Ali contributed with a solid 37 not out off 30 balls, featuring four boundaries. In contrast, the UAE Women’s batting struggled against the disciplined Pakistan bowlers. Theertha Satish was the top scorer with 40 runs, while Esha Oza added 16. Khushi Sharma managed only 12 runs as the UAE innings faltered under pressure. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sundhu, and Tuba Hassan, each claimed two wickets. Iqbal took 2-11, Sundhu 2-22, and Hassan 2-17.