Pakistan surge to top spot as West Indies revive hopes

ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 Qualifier

Pakistan surge to top spot as West Indies revive hopes

Photos courtesy ICC

Asher Butt

Pakistan strengthened their grip on a World Cup qualification spot with a commanding six-wicket victory over Scotland, while the West Indies bounced back from their opening day disappointment to edge Ireland by six runs in a nail-biting contest on day three of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 Qualifier on Friday.

 

Hosts Pakistan continue perfect campaign

On a rain-affected day at the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground, Pakistan maintained their unbeaten record in the tournament, successfully chasing down a target of 187 against previously undefeated Scotland in a match reduced to 32 overs per side.

The victory propelled Pakistan to the top of the qualification table with four points from two matches, putting them in prime position to secure one of the two coveted spots for next year's World Cup in India, which Pakistan would most likely be playing at a neutral venue.

After winning the toss and electing to field first in the shortened contest, Pakistan's bowling attack made early inroads with Sadia Iqbal and Diana Baig removing both Scottish openers inside the powerplay.

Scottish captain Kathryn Bryce responded with a masterful 91 off 96 deliveries, including 10 boundaries and a six, in what was undoubtedly the innings of the day. She received valuable support from Ailsa Lister (31) and Sarah Bryce (21) as Scotland built a platform at 123/4 after 22.1 overs.

However, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana led a remarkable bowling comeback, claiming 4/23 from her five overs to restrict Scotland to 186/9. Sadia Iqbal provided excellent support with 2/43 from seven overs, while Nashra Sandhu and Diana Baig maintained consistent pressure throughout.

Pakistan's chase was methodical and measured, anchored by two outstanding half-centuries. Opener Muneeba Ali continued her impressive form with 71 from 72 deliveries, while Aliya Riaz remained unbeaten on 68 from 70 balls to guide the hosts home with six wickets and an over to spare.

"Our bowling unit showed tremendous discipline today, especially after Scotland's strong start," said Pakistan captain Fatima Sana at the post-match press conference. "Muneeba and Aliya then demonstrated the batting form that gives us confidence heading into our crucial match against West Indies."

The victory marked a significant statistical milestone, with the match aggregate of 376 runs setting a new record for ODIs between Pakistan and Scotland women's teams.

 

West Indies survive Irish scare

At Gaddafi Stadium, West Indies reignited their qualification hopes with a tense six-run victory over Ireland in another rain-affected contest reduced to 33 overs per side.

After their surprising defeat to Scotland in the tournament opener, West Indies entered this match knowing that another loss would severely damage their prospects of reaching the World Cup.

Asked to bat first, West Indies faced early trouble when captain Hayley Matthews and Qiana Joseph were dismissed during the powerplay. However, the experienced middle order responded admirably, with Stafanie Taylor and Chinelle Henry each contributing 46 runs, while Zaida James added a valuable 36.

Ireland's bowling attack remained disciplined throughout, with Jane Maguire claiming impressive figures of 3/35. Orla Prendergast and Cara Murray also picked up crucial wickets as West Indies were restricted to 181/6 from their 33 overs.

In reply, Ireland made a promising start, racing to 50 runs during the powerplay and seemingly positioning themselves for a successful chase. However, Matthews demonstrated why she's considered one of the game's premier all-rounders by removing Irish captain Gaby Lewis and then claiming Orla Prendergast with a return catch off her own bowling.

Amy Hunter offered substantial resistance with 48 runs, while Laura Delaney contributed 32, keeping Ireland in contention deep into the chase. As the tension mounted in the final overs, Matthews returned to claim the last wicket, dismissing Arlene Kelly to secure a six-run victory that keeps West Indies' qualification hopes alive.

"After the Scotland match, we knew we had no more room for error," said a relieved Matthews after the match. "Today wasn't perfect, but sometimes winning ugly is what tournament cricket requires. The character we showed in defending that total gives us confidence moving forward."

 

With two rounds of matches completed for four of the six teams, the qualification scenario is beginning to take shape. Pakistan lead the standings with maximum points, while Scotland and West Indies each have one win from two matches. Ireland remain winless after two outings, placing them in a precarious position.

Bangladesh and Thailand, who didn't feature on day three, will return to action tomorrow as the tournament reaches its midway point.

The most anticipated clash of the coming days will be Pakistan's showdown with West Indies on April 14, a match that could potentially secure qualification for the hosts while eliminating one of the pre-tournament favorites.

"We're taking one match at a time," said Pakistan coach Taufeeq Umar. "But there's no denying that the West Indies match represents a significant opportunity for us to take a decisive step toward World Cup qualification in front of our home supporters."