Australia secured a dominant 9-wicket victory over Pakistan in the 14th match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday.
Chasing a modest target of 83 runs, Australia comfortably reached 85 for the loss of just one wicket, with 54 balls to spare. The Australian openers, led by Beth Mooney and Alyssa Healy, gave their side a steady start. Mooney was the only casualty in the innings, departing after scoring 15 runs off 15 balls, including three boundaries.
Following Mooney’s dismissal, Healy was joined by Ellyse Perry. Together, they maintained the momentum of the chase. However, Healy, the Australian captain, was forced to retire hurt in the 10th over due to severe cramps after top-scoring with 37 runs off 23 balls, hitting five fours in her innings.
Perry then partnered with Ashleigh Gardner to complete the straightforward chase. Perry remained unbeaten on 22 from 23 deliveries, while Gardner finished on 7 not out, ensuring Australia’s comprehensive win. Pakistan’s Sadia Iqbal claimed the only wicket for her side.
Earlier, Pakistan, playing without key player Fatima Sana, struggled against a disciplined Australian bowling attack. After winning the toss, Australia opted to field and quickly gained control of the match. Pakistan’s batters struggled from the outset, and by the 10th over, half of the team had been dismissed with only 39 runs on the board.
Stand-in skipper Muneeba Ali was the first to fall, managing just 7 runs from 12 balls before being dismissed by Sophie Molineux. Pakistan crossed the 50-run mark in the 14th over but failed to put up a competitive total. The team was bowled out for 82 runs on the penultimate ball of their innings.
Aliya Riaz was the standout batter for Pakistan, scoring 26 runs from 32 balls. Australia’s Ashleigh Gardner was the pick of the bowlers, taking 4 wickets, while Annabel Sutherland and Georgia Wareham claimed 2 wickets each. Molineux and Megan Schutt also chipped in with a wicket apiece.
Australia’s victory reinforces their position as a dominant force in the tournament, while Pakistan will look to regroup and improve their performance in upcoming matches.