Pakistan Women book place at World Twenty20

Sana Mir’s side enters qualifying event final after 9-wicket win over Ireland.

KARACHI: Sadia Yousuf bagged a four-wicket haul as Pakistan cruised into the final of ICC Women’s World Twenty20 qualifiers, thrashing Ireland by nine wickets in the first semi-final at Dublin. With the crushing victory, the Sana Mir-led side also confirmed its place at next year’s 2014 Women’s World Twenty20.

Pakistan exploited tough batting conditions well after electing to field, exerting pressure on the home side right from the beginning.

Ireland, who lost their first wicket on one run, continued to lose wickets at regular intervals and never settled, ultimately getting skittled out for just 65. Kim Garth, who struck an unbeaten 38, was the only batter to show resistance.

Sadia was impressive, conceding just nine runs, while snapping four wickets while Sumaiya Siddiqui, Sana, Nida Dar and Bismah Maroof claimed a wicket each.

In reply, Pakistan achieved the target comfortably for the loss of just one wicket with 35 balls to spare. Javeria Khan (34) was the top scorer while Nain Abidi also returned unbeaten after scoring 16. Nahida Khan (13) was the only batter dismissed for Pakistan.

The team will now face the winner of the second semi-final which will be played between Sri Lanka and the Netherlands. The final of the event will be played tomorrow.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30^th, 2013.

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