Pakistan women’s cricket team creates history, wins T20I series against New Zealand – Times of India

NEW DELHI: The Pakistan women’s cricket team achieved a significant milestone by breaking a drought of over five years and securing a historic 10-run victory over New Zealand in the second T20I of their series in Dunedin on Tuesday.
This triumph marked the first time Pakistan women have won a T20I series against the White Ferns in their history and also their first T20I series victory away from home since October 2018.
Facing the hosts, the much-improved Pakistan side posted a competitive total of 137/6 in their allotted 20 overs, showcasing commendable performances with the bat from Muneeba Ali (35), Aliya Riaz (32), and former captain Bismah Maroof (21).

The visitors, after being sent into bat by New Zealand, displayed resilience and contributed collectively to set the stage for a historic victory.
Left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal played a pivotal role in the triumph by dismissing key New Zealand batters Bernadine Bezuidenhout (2) and Amelia Kerr (2), reducing the hosts to 9/2 early in their chase.
Fatima Sana stood out as the pick of the Pakistan bowlers with figures of 3/22. The Pakistani team showcased discipline and skill in their bowling effort, ultimately securing the series-clinching victory.
Hannah Rowe top-scored for the home side with a well-compiled 33, but it wasn’t enough to steer New Zealand to victory.
The comprehensive performance by Pakistan has sparked celebration and pride within the team and among their supporters.

The third and final match of the series is scheduled to take place in Queenstown on Saturday, providing an opportunity for Pakistan to further solidify their historic achievement.
The positive turn of events for the Pakistan women’s cricket team aligns with recent advancements by the Pakistan Cricket Board, which has awarded 11-month domestic contracts to 74 young women cricketers.
Among these players, 59 belong to emerging and U19 categories, while 14 have already represented Pakistan at the senior level. This initiative aims to bolster women’s cricket and has injected confidence into the players, setting the stage for an action-packed women’s cricket season set to resume on September 1.
(With inputs from ANI)