Pakistan’s Fatima Sana starred in the first T-20 cricket match at Dunedin as Pakistan women team crushed New Zealand by seven wickets on Sunday, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Batting first, New Zealand women team set a victory target of 128 runs in stipulated 20 overs. Chasing the target, Pakistan women scored 132 runs in 18.2 overs.

The first T20I of Pakistan women’s tour of New Zealand saw a one-sided battle between the hosts and the visitors at University Oval. New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first, posting 127/6 in their allotted 20 overs.

Maddy Green emerged as the top scorer for the New Zealand side, showcasing her prowess with a blistering 43 off 28 deliveries. Despite notable contributions from Green and Suzie Bates (28 off 30), the hosts struggled to build substantial partnerships.

Pakistan’s bowlers put up a commendable display, with Fatima Sana leading the attack, claiming her career-best figures of 3/18 runs. Diana Baig and Nida Dar also chipped in with crucial wickets, restricting the White Ferns from setting a daunting target.

In response, Pakistan chased down the target of 128 runs in 18.2 overs with a stellar batting performance. Shawaal Sulfiqar led the charge with a composed 41 off 42 balls, well supported by Muneeba Ali, Nida Dar and Aliya Riaz, ensuring a comfortable victory for the visiting team.

Despite efforts from Sophie Devine, who scalped two wickets for 23 runs, the New Zealand bowlers struggled to contain the Pakistani batters, ultimately falling short in defending their total.

With Pakistan securing a convincing 7-wicket win in the opening encounter, the stage is set for an exciting showdown in the next match scheduled for Tuesday, December 5, once again at University Oval.