In a heart-pounding showdown at the National Stadium in Karachi on September 3, 2023, the Pakistan Women’s cricket team secured a nail-biting victory against their South African counterparts in the 2nd T20I of the series.
With South Africa Women setting a target of 151 runs, the pressure was on Pakistan Women to deliver a stellar performance. The scoreboard displayed a challenging situation – 156/3 was the required score, with just 5 balls remaining. The duo of Aliya Riaz and Muneeba Ali was at the crease, determined to steer their team to victory.
Muneeba Ali, the left-handed dynamo, provided vital support to Aliya Riaz. Her contribution of 26 runs from 15 balls, including 2 fours and 1 six, was invaluable. Together, they formed a partnership that added 54 runs in just 29 balls, with a remarkable run rate of 11.17.
Aliya Riaz was the star of the day, showcasing her incredible skills with the bat. Her swashbuckling innings of 31 runs from 18 balls, including 2 fours and 2 sixes, not only thrilled the fans but also changed the course of the game. She played with a strike rate of 172.22, a testament to her prowess. With nerves of steel, Aliya Riaz led the charge, taking her team closer to the target.
The match reached its climax in the 19th over when Pakistan Women needed just 1 run from 6 balls. The tension was palpable, and the crowd was in a frenzy. Marizanne Kapp bowled the over for South Africa Women, but Aliya Riaz had other plans. With a breathtaking six off the first ball of the over, she sealed the deal in style. The National Stadium erupted in celebration as Pakistan Women clinched victory with 5 balls to spare.
While Aliya Riaz and Muneeba Ali stole the spotlight in the final moments. Let’s not overlook Sidra Ameen’s outstanding performance earlier in the match. She earned the Player of the Match title for her exceptional innings of 61 runs from 44 balls, which included 6 fours and 1 six. Her remarkable contribution set the stage for Pakistan Women’s thrilling victory.
Their sensational triumph over South Africa Women is a moment that will be cherished by cricket enthusiasts, especially women’s cricket in Pakistan, for years to come.
With this dramatic win, Pakistan Women secured the series of 3 T20Is with two wins and one match remaining. It’s a testament to their skill and determination, and it sets the stage for an exciting final match.
