West Indies emerged victorious in a nail-biting one-run triumph over Pakistan in the inaugural women’s T20I encounter in Karachi. The visitors, batting first, posted a modest 122 runs, thanks to a disciplined bowling performance from Pakistan, led by Fatima Sana and Sadia Iqbal.
However, West Indies’ bowlers responded with equal determination, restricting Pakistan’s chase and turning it into a tense affair that went down to the wire. In the end, it came down to two runs off the final delivery, but Shamilia Connell’s accurate bowling and Shemaine Campbelle’s swift run-out sealed the victory for the Caribbean side.
Pakistan’s bowlers started strongly, with Iqbal dismissing Hayley Matthews for a duck on the second ball. Diana Baig then trapped Campbelle behind, leaving West Indies reeling at 14 for two. Qiana Joseph and Stafanie Taylor steadied the innings, but Pakistan’s bowlers kept them in check.
Chedean Nation and Chinelle Henry provided valuable cameos, helping West Indies reach a run-a-ball mark. However, Pakistan maintained a slight edge at the halfway point.
Pakistan’s chase began promisingly, with Sidra Ameen’s aggressive 23 putting them ahead of the required run rate. But the loss of Ameen and Gull Feroza in quick succession brought West Indies back into the game. Karishma Ramharack’s dismissal of Ayesha Zafar further boosted West Indies’ hopes.
Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof’s 24-ball 27 gave Pakistan a glimmer of hope, but West Indies’ bowlers held their nerve. The final over proved to be a rollercoaster of emotions, with Najiha Alvi’s exquisite cover drive for four bringing Pakistan within touching distance of victory. However, Connell’s dot ball and Campbelle’s run-out ensured West Indies’ triumph.
