Aussies punish Pakistan but at a cost
AUSTRALIA remains undefeated at the Women’s T20 World Cup, but is counting the cost of its win over Pakistan with injuries to two of its stars. After bowling Pakistan out for just 82, Australia then went on to reach that target with nine overs to spare to win by nine wickets.
Despite the Aussies losing Tayla Vlaeminck early in their fielding innings to a dislocated shoulder, Pakistan was no match for the Aussie bowling attack, with most batters not making it to double figures, or outscoring the extras tally of five.
Aliya Riaz was the pick of the batters with 26, but the next highest scorers both made 12.
On the flipside, Ash Gardner was the chief destroyer with ball in hand for the Australians, taking 4/21. Annabel Sutherland and Georgia Wareham both picked up two wickets each, while Megan Schutt and Sophie Molineux also got in on the wicket spoils.
In the end, things were pretty easy for the Australians. Top scorer Alyssa Healy did have to retire hurt thanks to a foot injury picked up while running a quick single, but the rest of the Australian top order made sure it was an early night for the defending champions.
Meanwhile for Pakistan Sadia Iqbal was the only one to pick up a wicket for her team.
The win sees Australia remain undefeated and with a very healthy run rate, so in the box seat to sail through to the semi final stage. They do have arguably their toughest opponent next India in one last group stage challenge though.
For Pakistan, not all hope is lost but it is not going to be easy to make the semi-finals. They need to absolutely belt New Zealand, while also hoping Australia takes a fair chunk out of India’s run rate.