Women’s World Twenty20: ‘We must win our remaining matches’

Pakistan captain Sana Mir optimistic despite stuttering start.


Our Correspondent March 24, 2014
“Batting pitch can be expected in Twenty20 events but it was more favourable than we had imagined,” says Sana Mir. PHOTO: ICC/FILE

KARACHI: It just took a few hours for Pakistan women to recuperate after an embarrassing defeat to South Africa, as they are looking to bounce back strongly for a place in the semi-finals, according to captain Sana Mir.

Pakistan were handed a 44-run drubbing in their first Group A fixture, which was the result of a  commendable batting performance by South Africa openers who remained unbeaten to post a total of 163 for nought in Sylhet. Sana’s side failed to achieve the target and was restricted to 119 for nine. The captain, who led her team to a 2-0 series win against hosts Bangladesh ahead of the World Twenty20, said the track surprised her bowlers.

“Batting pitch can be expected in Twenty20 events but it was more favourable than we had imagined,” Sana told The Express Tribune.

“The pitch was totally different from the ones we played on in Dhaka. There was absolutely no assistance for the pace bowlers or the spinners.”

Pakistan are now are in a must-win situation as they meet New Zealand (March 27), Australia (March 29) and Ireland (March 31) in their remaining group matches.

“It’s obvious that we cannot afford losing,” said Sana. “We can only advance into the semi-finals after winning all our remaining matches and that is what we are looking at.

“The loss was disappointing, but the players took only a few hours to regain motivation.  “We will return with a changed plan and will take one game at a time. Our next hurdle is New Zealand and we are focusing on that match for now.”

Published in The Express Tribune, March 25th, 2014.

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COMMENTS (1)

Blunt | 10 years ago | Reply

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