Dubai, September 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Muneeba Ali struck her fourth T20I half-century and Sadia Iqbal claimed three wickets as Pakistan women defeated Thailand women by 35 runs in their opening match of the ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
Electing to bat first, Pakistan posted 119/9 in their 20 overs, with Muneeba anchoring the innings with a 54 off 52 balls, including four boundaries. Sadaf Shamas provided valuable support with a run-a-ball 20 and shared a 54-run partnership with Muneeba for the fourth wicket.
Thailand’s bowlers kept Pakistan under pressure throughout the innings, with Suleeporn Laomi and Thipatcha Putthawong taking three wickets each, while Phannita Maya claimed two.
Defending 120, Pakistan made an immediate impact as Thailand lost two wickets for just six runs in the second over. Left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal bowled a double-wicket maiden to put Pakistan firmly in control.
Thailand struggled to build momentum thereafter and finished at 84/8 in 20 overs. Sadia returned to strike in the final over, completing figures of 3/11 from four overs.
Nashra Sundhu was Pakistan’s most economical bowler, conceding only six runs in her four overs while taking one wicket. Leg-spinner Tuba Hassan also impressed with 2/17 from her four overs.
Chanida Sutthiruang was Thailand’s top scorer with 25, but the team could not overcome Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack.
The victory gives Pakistan a winning start to their Asia Cup campaign. They will next face India in their second group match on Saturday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Brief scores: Pakistan 119/9 in 20 overs (Muneeba Ali 54, Sadaf Shamas 20; Suleeporn Laomi 3/14, Thipatcha Putthawong 3/18, Phannita Maya 2/34) beat Thailand 84/8 in 20 overs (Chanida Sutthiruang 25; Sadia Iqbal 3/11, Tuba Hassan 2/17) by 35 runs.
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