New Zealand secured their spot in the semi-finals of the Women’s T20 World Cup with a decisive 54-run victory over Pakistan in their final group match on Monday. Exceptional bowling performances from Amelia Kerr and Eden Carson propelled the White Ferns into the last four.
Off-spinner Eden Carson, named player of the match, took 2-7 from her three overs, while Kerr ended with figures of 3-14 as New Zealand bowled out Pakistan for a mere 56 runs in 11.4 overs. New Zealand had earlier posted a total of 110-6 in their allotted 20 overs.
With this win, New Zealand became the second team from Group A to advance to the semi-finals, following holders Australia who topped the group. The defeat dashed Pakistan’s hopes of qualifying and also led to India’s elimination, as India paid the price for their opening 58-run loss to New Zealand.
“It hasn’t sunk in yet,” said New Zealand captain Sophie Devine. “We will certainly celebrate tonight, but this is just the next stage of a tournament we are looking forward to.”
Pakistan needed to reach the target in just 10.4 overs to improve their net run rate and surpass the White Ferns in the standings. However, they began their chase poorly, losing openers Aliya Riaz (promoted to opener) for nought and Muneeba Ali (15) within the first five overs.
The situation deteriorated further with Sadaf Shamas (2) being clean bowled by Fran Jonas and Iram Javed (3) being run out by a direct throw from Lea Tahuhu. Reduced to 28-5 at the end of the powerplay, Pakistan never recovered. Skipper Fatima Sana, who had returned to the team after briefly flying home due to her father’s death, fought valiantly, scoring 21 runs in a losing effort.
“We were good with the ball, but we have to improve our batting and fielding,” said Sana, reflecting on the eight catches Pakistan dropped. “We were not up to the mark. I think our seniors should step up in these kinds of matches.”
New Zealand started steadily after electing to bat first, with Suzie Bates (28) and Georgia Plimmer (17) sharing a 41-run opening partnership. Pakistan struck back soon after the powerplay, dismissing both openers and Kerr (9) in quick succession.
Pakistan’s sloppy fielding was costly, with Sidra Amin dropping an easy catch off Nida Dar when Sophie Devine was on 14. Although Devine did not capitalize fully, being caught by Sana at long-on off Sadia Iqbal for 19, the damage was already done.
Left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu was the most successful bowler for Pakistan, picking up 3-18, including the wicket of Brooke Halliday for 22.
