Pakistan women register close win

Tourists win 3rd ODI by three wickets against West Indies.

Pakistan women’s team registered their first win on the tour of the West Indies, winning the penultimate One-Day International (ODI) by three wickets at Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St Vincent.

After bundling out the hosts for 92, Pakistan overcame a jittery start to prevail in the 48th over with Bismah Maroof anchoring the faltering innings and helping the tourists cross the finish line. The 20-year-old Maroof was unbeaten on 41, made off 135 balls, and was named player of the match.

But it was the Pakistan spinners who set up the win to keep their hopes alive in the series. Following huge defeats in the first two ODIs, they were led by off-spinner Nida Dar, who claimed career-best figures of four for 16. Leg-spinner and captain Sana Mir claimed three wickets as well as Pakistan dismissed the hosts for their lowest total in the series.

However, chasing a small total, Pakistan found things tough right from the start. A 48-run fourth-wicket stand revived the team after they were reduced to 11 for three. From 83 for four, Pakistan suffered a collapse to lose three wickets for two runs before Maroof saved the day.

The two teams play the final ODI today with West Indies leading the series 2-1.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 3^rd, 2011.