(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Fatima Sana’s all-round performance goes in vain as South Africa defeat Pakistan in thriller
BIRMINGHAM: Pakistan captain Fatima Sana delivered an impressive all-round performance, but her efforts were not enough as South Africa secured a narrow two-wicket win in their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup match at Edgbaston on Tuesday.
Chasing a target of 127, South Africa reached 127-8 in 16.5 overs after a tense finish, despite Pakistan mounting pressure late in the game.
Fatima played a key role for Pakistan, scoring an unbeaten 55 off 38 balls to help her side recover from early setbacks. She also led the bowling attack with important breakthroughs, including the dismissal of South Africa captain Sune Luus.
Pakistan’s innings had earlier struggled after South Africa’s Marizanne Kapp removed several top-order batters, leaving the team in deep trouble. A crucial ninth-wicket partnership between Fatima Sana and Tuba Hassan added 71 runs and helped Pakistan reach a competitive total of 126-9.
In reply, South Africa maintained momentum through Annerie Dercksen’s half-century, while Nadine de Klerk’s composed 37 guided the chase despite regular wickets falling.
Pakistan created several chances in the field but were unable to hold key catches, which proved costly in the final outcome.
With this defeat, Pakistan suffered their second consecutive loss in the tournament, while South Africa strengthened their position in the group stage. Pakistan will next face Bangladesh in a must-win match to keep their qualification hopes alive.
