Pakistan players celebrate a China wicket during the women’s group pool A cricket match at the Guanggong cricket stadium in Guangzhou during the 16th Asian Games. – Photo by AFP

GUANGZHOU: Off-spinner Sana Gulzar took four wickets for just eight runs as Pakistan crushed Thailand in their Asian Games women's cricket opener on Sunday.

After Thailand had been restricted to 49 all out, Pakistan cruised to an eight wicket victory in just 8.3 overs to hammer home their credentials as gold medal favourites.

The Thais lost their last eight wickets for just 23 runs with opener Siwaporn Kosathong the only player to reach double figures with 10.

Fast bowler Marina Iqbal and spinner Nida Rashid claimed two wickets each.

In reply, Fatima Abidi and Bismah Maroof saw Pakistan to victory after Rashid (21) and Javeria Wadood (19) had put on 42.

Pakistan will tackle hosts China in their next match.

“Today's match was useful practice for the game against China,” said Pakistan captain Sana Mir.

“We don't know too much about China but once we find out about them, it will be easier for us.” – AFP