Pakistan women survive Thailand scare to make Asian Games semi-finals

Pakistan women's cricket team overcame a significant setback to advance to the semi-finals of the Asian Games Women’s Cricket Competition, defeating Thailand by three wickets at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan on Thursday. Thailand posted 91 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their 11 overs, following a rain delay. Pakistan responded with a dominant chase, crossing the finish line with only two balls remaining.

Captain Fatima Sana played a crucial role, scoring 21 runs off 13 balls while her team mate Shawal Zulfiqar contributed 25 runs off 14 balls. Thailand's innings began strongly, scoring 41 runs in the powerplay, largely due to a 24-ball performance from Nannapat Koncharoenkai. However, Pakistan's batsmen, led by Shawal and Gul Feroza, kept the scoreboard ticking, despite dropping catches and fielding mistakes.

Pakistan's innings saw a collapse, with the team losing four wickets in 13 balls. The match was decided in the last over, with Fatima finishing with two wickets for 22 runs. Shawal and Gul Feroza will both represent Pakistan in the upcoming semi-finals, scheduled for September 20 at the same venue. Pakistan will face the winners of Malaysia vs. Sri Lanka clash in the second semi-final.