Nashra Sandhu produced a record-breaking spell of 6 for 7 from four overs, the first six-wicket haul by a Pakistan bowler in Women’s T20Is, as Pakistan beat Hong Kong, China by 72 runs and booked a Women’s Asia Cup 2026 semi-final place.
Sandhu dismantles the chase
Hong Kong, China were set 144 and never got going against Sandhu’s accuracy and turn. They were bowled out for 71 in 19 overs. Kary Chan top-scored with 30 from 47 balls, but nobody else helped her build a meaningful partnership.
The figures beat the previous Pakistan best in women’s T20Is, Omaima Sohail’s 5 for 13 against Sri Lanka in 2022.
Zulfiqar’s 47 sets the platform
Asked to bat first, Pakistan made 143 for 8. Shawaal Zulfiqar anchored the innings with 47 off 35 balls. Joyleen Kaur was the pick of the Hong Kong, China bowlers with 4 for 19, helping to stop Pakistan’s lower order from adding more. Even so, the total proved comfortably enough.
Sri Lanka await
Pakistan ended second in Group A, behind India, with four points. Their semi-final against Sri Lanka is on September 11 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
After such a commanding display, Pakistan will go into the knockout stage with confidence, while Sri Lanka will need a plan to deal with Sandhu’s left-arm spin if they want a place in the final.
