Bismah excels as Pakistan beat BD
KARACHI: All-rounder Bismah Maroof hit a sparkling unbeaten half-century and grabbed one wicket to spearhead Asian Games champions Pakistan to an impressive 29-run victory over Bangladesh in the opening Women’s Twenty20 International here at the Southend Club Ground on Wednesday.
Seasoned international Bismah made a brilliant 65 off 67 balls with five boundaries and Javeria Wadood slammed 44 off 43 balls with four hits to the fence as Pakistan recovered to score 124 for the loss of five wickets in their 20 overs after electing to bat first.
Bangladesh in reply were restricted to 95 for the loss of seven wickets in their 20 overs — giving home team an easy win.
Bismah, who won the player-of-the-match award for her all-round show, added 87 runs for the second wicket in 83 balls after opener Marina Iqbal was run out by BD wicketkeeper Nigar Sultana for one. Nida Dar and Irum went back in quick succession for four runs each. However, Bismah looked rock-solid and returned unbeaten.
Left-arm spinner Nahida Akter finished with fine figures of two wickets for 17 runs in her four overs.