Pakistan women defeat Thailand to secure ICC World Cup berth

LAHORE: Pakistan women continued their flawless journey at the ICC World Cup Qualifier as they defeated Thailand by 87 runs to secure a spot in the mega event, scheduled to be held later this year.

Pakistan captain Fatima Sana's decision to bat first paid dividends as her team's batting unit registered a formidable total of 205/6 in the allotted 50 overs.

Leading the way for the home side were top-order batter Sidra Amin and skipper Sana, who both scored half-centuries.

Amin top-scored for the green shirts with 80 off 105 deliveries, studded with nine fours, while Sana scored an unbeaten 62 off 59 balls, laced with six fours and a six.

The duo also recovered Pakistan from 85/4 by putting together a crucial 97-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

For Thailand, Thipatcha Putthawong took two wickets, while Onnicha Kamchomphu and Nattaya Boochatham chipped in with one scalp apiece.

Chasing a 206-run target, Thailand’s batting unit unfolded on a meagre 118 in 34.4 overs, resulting in Pakistan securing World Cup qualification with a match to spare.

Wicketkeeper batter Nannapat Koncharoenkai remained the top-scorer for Thailand with a 19-run knock.

Besides her, Nattaya Boochatham (16), Suwanan Khiaoto (15), Natthakan Chantham (13), Naruemol Chaiwai (12) and Thipatcha Putthawong (10) were the other notable run-getters.

For Pakistan, skipper Sana, Rameen Shamim and Nashra Sandhu picked up three wickets each, while Sadia Iqbal struck once.

The 87-run victory also helped Pakistan to acquire the top spot in the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier standings by replacing Bangladesh, who suffered a narrow three-wicket defeat at the hands of West Indies earlier today.

Despite having sealed the qualification, the hosts next face Bangladesh on Saturday.