Fatima Sana delivered a superb all-round display to guide Pakistan Women to a commanding 53-run victory over South Africa in the third T20 International at Willowmoore Park on Monday, helping her side avoid a clean sweep in the series.
Batting first after losing the toss, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 144 for 7 in their allotted twenty overs. The innings began shakily as openers Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza were dismissed without scoring, putting early pressure on the visitors and giving South Africa early momentum with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.
Pakistan recovered through useful middle-order contributions. Sidra Amin and Aliya Riaz steadied the innings with composed knocks, while Ayesha Zafar chipped in with a quick cameo. However, regular wickets, including multiple run-outs, prevented Pakistan from building a larger total despite periods of stability.
The turning point came through captain Sana’s unbeaten 47 off just 30 balls. Her innings included four boundaries and two sixes and shifted momentum back in Pakistan’s favor. She paced her knock intelligently, accelerating in the death overs to push the total to a challenging level that ultimately proved decisive.
In reply, South Africa struggled against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for 91 in 16.5 overs. Sadia Iqbal led the bowling effort with outstanding figures of three wickets, while Sana supported with two crucial scalps to dismantle the opposition lineup.
For the hosts, only Annerie Dercksen and Nadine de Klerk offered resistance, while captain Laura Wolvaardt managed a modest score. Despite the loss, South Africa secured the three-match series 2-1, but Pakistan’s emphatic win provided a strong finish and a confidence boost heading into future international fixtures.
Also read: Fatima Sana Opens Up About Assault After Resisting Harassment
