KARACHI, Dec 12: Defending champions Punjab retained their title in the 10th edition of the National Women’s Softball Championship after a thrilling 9-7 runs victory over Sindh in the final at the PSB Coaching Centre here on Wednesday.

The match was locked at 7-7 runs after four innings in the best of five innings final. However in the final innings Punjab scored two runs to maintain their domination in the event.

Zainab Farman, Saira Khatoon and captain Nazia Nazeer starred in their team’s triumph with brilliant play.

The hosts Sindh team offered a stiff challenge after trailing behind.

The winners scored four runs in the second and nothing in third. Punjab scored three runs to secure seven runs lead.

Sindh levelled the term 7-all. But Punjab wrapped up the final by scoring two runs in the final innings.

In the playoff for the third place, Pakistan Army defeated Balochistan 14-2.

Earlier in the semi-finals, Punjab beat Balochistan 3-1 and Sindh defeated Army 10-0.

President Softball Federation of Pakistan (SFP), Mohammad Saleem Khan distributed the prizes. Punjab captain Nazia Nazeer collected the trophy and cash prize of Rs50,000 and Sindh captain Hiba Batool collected the runners-up trophy and Rs25,000.

SSA Secretary Asif Azeem said that with the successful hosting of this national event, SFP may consider bidding for staging an international softball event in coming years.

SSA President Jahangir Mughal, Vice Presidents Dr Farhan Essa, N.A.Sherazi, President Karachi Softball Association and others were also present at the presentation ceremony.—APP