Women’s Asia Cup 2024: Pakistan beat Nepal by nine wickets

Dambullah: Pakistan achieved their first win of the 2024 Women's Asia Cup, defeating Nepal by nine wickets on Sunday at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.

Chasing a target of 109, Pakistan reached it in just 11.5 overs, thanks to an outstanding 105-run opening partnership between Gul Feroza and Muneeba Ali.

Feroza celebrated her first T20I half-century, scoring a swift 57 off 35 balls, hitting 10 fours. Muneeba Ali remained not out with 46 off 34 balls, including eight boundaries.

Earlier, Pakistan chose to bowl first and quickly put pressure on Nepal.

Fatima Sana struck in the opening over, dismissing Samjhana Khadka for just 4 runs.

Nepal briefly recovered with a partnership between Sita Rana Magar and Kabita Kunwar, but then lost two wickets for 30 runs. Sadia Iqbal took key wickets, including Kunwar for 13 and captain Indu Barma for a duck.

Nepal's run rate slowed after Rubina Chhetry was dismissed in the 10th over. Sita Rana Magar made 26 off 30 balls before getting out in the 15th over.

A late push from Kabita Joshi and Puja Mahato helped Nepal reach a respectable total of 108 for 6 in their 20 overs.

Kabita remained unbeaten with 31 off 23 balls, hitting three fours and a six, while Mahato added a valuable 25 runs. Sadia Iqbal was the standout bowler for Pakistan, finishing with figures of 2 for 19.