Pakistan Women began their ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup campaign with a 35-run victory over Thailand in Dubai, securing an early boost before Saturday’s high-profile meeting with India.
Pakistan made 119 for nine after choosing to bat. Muneeba Ali anchored the innings with 54 from 52 balls, striking four boundaries, while Sadaf Shamas added 20 during a 54-run fourth-wicket partnership with Muneeba. Thailand’s bowlers kept Pakistan from accelerating consistently, but Pakistan’s total proved sufficient on a difficult surface.
The response collapsed early. Sadia Iqbal removed two batters in the second over, including a wicket-maiden sequence that left Thailand six runs behind with two wickets down. She returned late to complete figures of three for 11, while Nashra Sundhu conceded only six runs in four overs and Tuba Hassan claimed two wickets.
Thailand finished on 84 for eight. Chanida Sutthiruang top-scored with 25, but the chase never developed momentum after the early damage. Pakistan’s spin attack controlled the middle overs and prevented Thailand from building a partnership capable of challenging the target.
The result gives Fatima Sana’s side a positive platform in Group A. Pakistan’s next fixture is against India at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 5, followed by a group match against Hong Kong, China.
Muneeba was named player of the match, while Sadia’s spell became the decisive passage of the game. Pakistan’s ability to convert a modest total through disciplined spin bowling will now be tested against India’s stronger batting line-up.
