Dubai, Oct 11 (UNI) Australia continued their dominance in the Women's T20 World Cup, registering their 14th consecutive victory with a resounding nine-wicket win over Pakistan in a Group A match at the Dubai International Stadium.
The star of the show was Ashleigh Gardner, who dismantled Pakistan's batting order with an impressive 4 for 21, leading the Australians to restrict their opponents to a meagre 82 runs.
Pakistan, who have never defeated Australia in a T20 World Cup, struggled throughout the match. They were missing their captain Fatima Sana, and the absence was felt as the side could not recover from a poor start.
Stand-in skipper Muneeba Ali replaced opener Gull Feroza but the change did little to ease Pakistan’s woes as they lost quick wickets early on.
Australia, opting to bowl first, applied pressure from the start. Muneeba was caught by Sophie Molineux in the Power Play, and the slide continued as Pakistan reached 23 for 2 by the end of the first six overs.
Pakistan's batters struggled to score, managing to hit their first boundary only after 49 deliveries, with Nida Dar breaking the drought. However, the lack of partnerships and Australia's disciplined bowling saw regular wickets fall.
Gardner’s brilliant spell, supported by Georgia Wareham and Annabel Sutherland who picked up two wickets each, ensured that Pakistan's total remained well below par. Aliya Riaz, with a fighting 26 off 32 balls, was the only player to offer any resistance before becoming the last batter dismissed.
Australia’s chase was swift and clinical. Beth Mooney's quick-fire start and Alyssa Healy's unbeaten 37 off 23 balls led them to 83/1 in just 11 overs. Although Healy retired hurt just before the end of the match due to a suspected calf injury, Australia cruised to victory with 54 balls to spare.
Australia will be concerned about two injuries, including Tayla Vlaeminck’s shoulder dislocation, but their on-field dominance remains unchallenged as they look set to continue their winning streak.
Brief Scores:
Pakistan 82 in 19.5 overs (Aliya Riaz 26; Ashleigh Gardner 4-21, Georgia Wareham 2-16, Annabel Sutherland 2-15)
Australia 83/1 in 11 overs (Alyssa Healy 37 not out)
Australia won by 9 wickets.
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