ICC women t20 world cup 2024 | New Zealand vs Pakistan
Pakistan faced a tough challenge of chasing 111 runs within 10.4 overs to remain in contention for the knockouts, but their aggressive approach backfired, as they were bowled out for just 56 in 11.4 overs.
Despite losing five wickets and being reduced to 28-5 in the powerplay, Pakistan’s batters continued their attack, hoping to keep their net run-rate in check rather than taking a cautious approach to chase the small total.
Earlier, New Zealand’s batters had struggled against Pakistan’s spinners, who effectively slowed down the scoring in the middle overs. However, Pakistan’s fielding let them down as they dropped eight catches throughout the innings.
Suzie Bates, the top scorer for New Zealand with 28, was dropped twice, and three more catches went down in the final over, allowing Maddy Green and Izzy Gaze to add nine crucial runs.
Although New Zealand’s total of 110-6 seemed below par, their disciplined bowling, paired with Pakistan’s frenzied but understandable tactics, proved decisive.
Leg-spinner Melie Kerr shone with figures of 3-14, while fellow spinner Eden Carson contributed with 2-7.
This win marks New Zealand’s first semi-final appearance in a white-ball tournament since 2016. They join Australia, the six-time champions, from Group A, while India has been knocked out. New Zealand will face the top team from Group B, which will be either South Africa, England, or the West Indies, with the latter two teams set to clash on Tuesday.
