Pakistan Women qualified for the semi-finals of the 2026 Asian Games after a three-wicket victory over Thailand in a rain-reduced quarter-final on Thursday.
The match, held at Korogi Athletic Park, was shortened to 11 overs per side due to a wet outfield. Pakistan chased down Thailand’s total with two balls to spare, avoiding a potential upset in their opening fixture of the tournament.
Sana and Koncharoenkai Lead Individual Efforts
Batting first, Thailand posted 91 in their allotted 11 overs. Wicketkeeper-batter Nannapat Koncharoenkai top-scored with 49 runs off 38 balls, hitting seven boundaries. Pakistan captain Fatima Sana led the bowling attack, claiming 2 for 22.
In the chase, Sana played a decisive role with the bat, scoring 21 runs off 13 balls. A pivotal eighth over bowled by Onnicha Kamchomphu yielded 25 runs, shifting the momentum in Pakistan’s favor after Thailand’s bowlers had kept the contest tight. Pakistan reached the target in 10.4 overs.
Muneeba Ali Withdraws from Squad
Pakistan entered the match without regular wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali. The PCB confirmed that Muneeba has withdrawn from the remainder of the Asian Games to return home following her mother’s illness. Gull Feroza took over wicketkeeping duties for the quarter-final. Due to logistical constraints, no late replacement will be named to the squad.
Speaking on the tournament’s intensity before the match, Fatima Sana stated: All the matches include great consequence and for that we will have to be on our toes right from the first games against Thailand.
Semi-Final Outlook
Pakistan, the gold medalists in 2010 and 2014, will face either Sri Lanka or Malaysia in the semi-final scheduled for September 20. Bangladesh has already secured a semi-final spot following their abandoned match against China.
Fatima Sana is also scheduled to serve as Pakistan’s flag-bearer, alongside squash player Noor Zaman, during the Asian Games opening ceremony on September 19.
