By Asif Naveed
Web Desk; Pakistan’s Women’s World Cup campaign suffered another major setback on Saturday as persistent rain in Colombo led to their second abandoned match in four days, putting their chances of reaching the semi-finals in serious jeopardy, ESPNcricinfo reported.
Pakistan were struggling at 92 for 5 in 25 overs against New Zealand when heavy showers returned, forcing the match to be abandoned and both teams to share points.
The washout confirmed South Africa’s qualification to the semi-finals alongside Australia, as their superior number of wins ensures their progression even if other teams finish level on points.
For Pakistan, the result extended their disappointing run in the tournament, as they remain winless so far. New Zealand, on the other hand, held on to fifth place on the points table with one win and two abandoned matches, keeping their faint semifinal hopes alive.
Their upcoming fixtures against India and England will be decisive.
Earlier, after winning the toss, New Zealand capitalized on overcast conditions. Veteran pacer Lea Tahuhu returned to the XI with two quick wickets, while Eden Carson and the Kerr sisters maintained pressure, reducing Pakistan to 92 for 5. Omaima Sohail fell lbw for 3 in Tahuhu’s opening over, while sharp catches by Suzie Bates and Carson compounded Pakistan’s troubles.
Muneeba Ali (22) and Sidra Amin (13) provided brief resistance, and Aliya Riaz (28 not out) showed some fight after a 95-minute rain delay, but Pakistan never found momentum. Natalia Pervaiz was dismissed for 14, and skipper Fatima Sana fell soon after, leaving the side in trouble before the final rain interruption.
Despite hopes of a shortened 36-over game, persistent rain eventually forced officials to call off the match. This was the fourth World Cup fixture in Colombo to be abandoned due to weather, following multiple rain-disrupted games earlier in the tournament.
The washout leaves Pakistan’s campaign hanging by a thread ahead of their remaining group matches, while South Africa advanced to the semifinals with eight points in five games.
