ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan women's cricket team secured a place in the Women's Asia Cup 2026 semi-finals after defeating Hong Kong by 72 runs in their final Group A match in Dubai on Monday.
The win helped Pakistan bounce back from a heavy defeat against India earlier in the tournament and secured their place in the last four alongside India and Sri Lanka.
Pakistan finished 143-8 in their allotted 20 overs after a mixed batting performance.
Captain Fatima Sana led from the front with a composed 41, while opener Shawaal Zulfiqar added 28 at the top of the order. Sidra Amin contributed 18, helping Pakistan recover after losing wickets at regular intervals.
Hong Kong's bowlers kept Pakistan under pressure for much of the innings. Spinner Joyleen Kaur produced an impressive spell, claiming four wickets and preventing Pakistan from building a bigger total.
Defending 144, Pakistan's bowlers dominated from the outset as Hong Kong struggled to keep up with the required run rate.
Left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu delivered the match-winning performance, taking 4 wickets for just 15 runs. Her disciplined bowling dismantled Hong Kong's middle order and earned her Player of the Match.
Hong Kong was bowled out for 71 in 19 overs, with only a handful of batters reaching double figures. Pakistan's spin attack maintained control throughout the innings, never allowing the opposition to build a meaningful partnership.
Pakistan finished the group stage with two wins and one defeat, enough to advance to the semi-finals from Group A.
The Women in Green had earlier defeated Thailand before suffering a record loss to India, where they were dismissed for just 55 runs. Monday's victory restored momentum ahead of the knockout stage.
Pakistan will now face Sri Lanka in the semi-finals, while India will meet the team that secures the remaining semi-final spot from Group B.
The final is scheduled later this week in Dubai.