Encouraging start

Pakistan's determined fightback against Sri Lanka, the Asia Cup Champions, in their opening game of the Women's T20 World Cup in Sharjah marked a significant and inspiring start to their campaign. With a 31-run victory on Thursday, the team demonstrated great resilience, delivering a performance that sets a strong tone for the tournament ahead.

The backbone of this win was Pakistan's spin attack, led by left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal, who claimed three key wickets. Supported by Nashra Sandhu, Omaima Sohail and skipper Fatima Sana, all of whom took two wickets each, Pakistan successfully defended their modest total of 116. As the team celebrated their triumph in Sharjah, it provided a much-needed glimmer of hope for cricket fans, especially after the men's team has suffered a string of disappointing defeats and internal turmoil. At a time when the men's game is clouded by controversies and underperformance, this victory by the women's team serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that there is still pride to be found in Pakistan's cricketing future. This victory not only marks a promising start to the world competition but also highlights the determination of a team that has often operated in the shadows of their male counterparts.

For long, the women's team has struggled to get the attention, resources and respect that the men's team commands. But now, amid the men's team's recent struggles, it is the women who are showing the nation what it means to fight through adversity and emerge victorious. However, they must not fall into the trap of celebrating too early. Instead, this win should fuel their hunger in challenging matches ahead, particularly against India.