LAHORE: Pakistan ‘A’ secured their place in the semi-finals of the ACC Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars with a commanding nine-wicket win over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the Terdthai Cricket Ground in Bangkok.
The victory was built on disciplined bowling and a composed batting display, ensuring Pakistan advanced on net run-rate despite both teams finishing with four points. Asked to bowl first, Pakistan’s attack dismantled the UAE batting order, restricting them to just 79 in 17.2 overs. The standout performer was Anosha Nasir, who claimed three wickets for 18 runs and was named Player of the Match. She was well supported by skipper Hafsa Khalid (2/4), while Waheeda Akhtar, Gull Rukh, and Momina Riasat chipped in with a wicket apiece. UAE’s innings never gained momentum, with opener Theertha Satish (32 off 27) the only batter to offer resistance before the side collapsed, losing five wickets for just 11 runs in the closing stages.
In reply, Pakistan needed to chase the target inside 15.5 overs to qualify, and they did so emphatically, reaching the mark in just 11 overs. Eman Naseer (12) opened alongside Shawaal Zulfiqar, and after her dismissal, Shawaal combined with Huraina Sajjad to finish the job. Shawaal top-scored with an unbeaten 38 off 31 balls, striking five fours and a six, while Huraina added a brisk 26 off 19 balls.
