Nashra Sandhu’s record six-fer powers Pakistan into Asia Cup semifinals

Hong Kong struggled throughout their chase and were bowled out for just 71 in the 19th over.

The six-wicket haul was Nashra’s maiden five-wicket-plus performance in T20 internationals and the best bowling figures by a Pakistan women’s cricketer in the format.

She surpassed the previous record of five for 13, held by Omaima Sohail for her performance against Sri Lanka in Sylhet, Bangladesh, in 2022.Nashra’s relentless spell ensured Hong Kong never established any momentum, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals.

Kary Chan offered some resistance with 30, but there was little support from the other end as Pakistan’s bowlers completed a comprehensive victory.Earlier, Pakistan posted 143 for eight after being asked to bat first.

Shawaal Zulfiqar provided the foundation with a fluent 35-ball 47, striking seven boundaries, while Ayesha Zafar contributed 26 off 19 balls with four fours.

Captain Fatima Sana added a valuable unbeaten 24 off 24 deliveries, including two sixes, to guide Pakistan to a competitive total.Hong Kong’s Joyleen Kaur was their standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 19 runs, while Iqra Sahar and Kary Chan took two wickets apiece.

The victory secured Pakistan’s place in the last four, with the Green Shirts finishing second in Group A with four points from three matches.

Pakistan will now face Sri Lanka in the second semifinal on Friday, September 11, with a place in the tournament final at stake.PAKISTAN 143-8, 20 overs (Shawaal Zulfiqar 47, Ayesha Zafar 26, Fatima Sana 24*; Joyleen Kaur 4-19, Iqra Sahar 2-27, Kary Chan 2-33) beat HONG KONG 71 all out, 19 overs (Kary Chan 30; Nashra Sundhu 6-7) by 72 runs.

LAHORE – Left-arm spinner Nashra Sundhu produced a record-breaking six-wicket haul as Pakistan thrashed Hong Kong by 72 runs to book their place in the semifinals of the ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday.